Franchising Raising Ostrich in the Philippines

I. Introduction

Ostrich growers are rapidly expanding their flocks throughout the world to meet the increasing demand for high quality ostrich livestock and ostrich products.

During the breeding season (approximatelyFeb-Oct. in the Philippines) a good ostrich hen lays an egg every other day if the eggs are removed for artificial incubation. If the eggs are left with the birds to incubate, the eggs are set after a clutch of a dozen or so eggs are laid. Most producers begin the incubation process one day a week to ease the workload. After approximately 42 days of incubation with controlled temperature and humidity, an ostrich egg hatches.

A newly hatched ostrich chick is approximately 10 inches tall and weighs about two pounds. For the first three months, an ostrich chick needs diligent care and shelter. The grow-out phase is considered to be age 3 months to slaughter. Growth is approximately 10-12 inches a month for the first six months. Ostriches generally reach slaughter size between ages 10-14 months

Ostrich meat is a low fat, red meat which is high in protein and also low in calories and cholesterol. It looks and tastes like beef, but has a nutritional content similar to chicken and turkey. Ostrich meat is being served in fine dining establishments throughout the United States, Europe, and the Far East. Ostrich meat is fast becoming a popular menu item wherever it is served and whenever it is consumed by the Gourmet diners.

The ostrich produces the world's premiere exotic leather. Ostrich leather is universally renowned for its strength and suppleness. Its unique quill pattern makes ostrich leather the premium leather of choice for high end exotic leather products produced around the world. Brand names such as Gucci, Tony Lama, Nocona, and Justin Boots use large quantities of ostrich leather in producing their top of the line leather products.

II. Ostrich Breeds - Cross-bred lines have resulted from selective breeding; for positive traits like meat productivity, early maturation, conformation, easier handling, and faster growth rates. Increasingly, more emphasis is being placed on the desirable traits of a particular blood-line, rather than on the more uncertain definition of "breed" type...

III. Acquiring Livestock - The Ostrich industry has evolved considerably over the past five years. Newcomers to the industry now have many options that were not available in the past years. Information is easier to obtain regarding various aspects of ostrich farming, and much
of the ground work for the future has been laid...

IV. Young Chick Rearing & Management Practices - Management plays a key role in successful ostrich chick rearing. The raising of chicks is one of the most important parts of the whole production process. The age of 0-8 weeks is where the highest mortalities are experienced. As an industry, it will be imperative that through experience, research and knowledge, we learn to reduce mortalities...

V. Ostrich Nutrion - Newly hatched chicks up to 4 - 6 weeks are generally fed a high protein ration ranging from 20 - 22 % . These starters are designed to meet the high energy requirements of young babies. Young chicks should consume 50 - 120 grams per day to maintain growth requirements. The length of time on this ration will depend on the individual chick...

VI. Fencing - If you are going to keep Ostriches, you are going to build fences! When constructing your fencing, take time to plan a layout, remembering that no doubt your flock will grow over time, and will need to construct more fences. Plan a layout that is easily added to if necessary, that provides lane-ways for moving your birds around, and provides access for any vehicles that may need to access your property for bird transportation...

VII. Purchasing Option - The potential buyer should decide at which point in the production cycle they are entering the industry and where they wish to be in the future. Birds grow very rapidly, and it is important to be prepared with adequate housing for all types of weather conditions. Birds can be purchased at any stage of development and these decisions should be based on a buyer's financial status and experience with livestock...

Why Eat Ostrich Meat? - Ostrich has found a place on the world's menu, delivering red meat flavor with 40% less fat than beef. Already a popular menu item at top rated European and American restaurants, ostrich is poised to become, "the premier red meat of the next century," according to the The National Culinary Review. The reason is simple. No other meat combines the flavor, versatility and nutritional benefits of ostrich. Ostrich is the healthiest red meat available. Try it and you'll agree...

For further inquiries contact:

Gross Ostrich Farm
Michael Gross
409 San Anton, San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija
Tel: 044-971-0088, Fax: 044-971-0089
CP#: 0917-566-5837
mikegros@mozcom.com

Global Farm
John Go
138 Lore Avenue, Valenzuela City, M.M.

Philippine Ostrich & Crocodile Farms, Inc.
Limketkai Corporate Office Limketkai Center,
Cagayan de Oro City

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