Yes, a desert in Namibia and eggs 50 times heavier, all hatching.
The shell is so strong, the ostrich mother often helps the chicks out.
The biggest advance is that both parents look after the eggs.
It's a marriage of necessity, one that goes back to food and hungry mothers.
Birds need to eat more than cold blooded reptiles.
If the father weren't here, she would either starve or leave.
So he does the night shift. The brood is then safe from hungry jackals
to be even safer. Ostriches spread the risks.
Some of them lay eggs in the dominant pair's nest, almost like cuckoos.
The top couple don't object. Maybe it helps to have a few spare eggs in case a predator comes.
Or maybe there are just too many to count. But ostriches are good intuitive parents
and with no obvious favorites.
Foster chicks aren't fussy either. They imprint on any adult.
Chicks are encouraged to get up and about. Though it doesn't look very helpful.
They totter about like children on stilts and on
the ostriches are devoted to the whole brood. But they don't seem to care about specific chicks.
Even their own. Within hours, the family needs to find water. It's a death sentence on any chicks
still hatching in big families. It's not always possible to worry about individuals.
Raising ostrich chicks can be an interesting and rewarding endeavor, but it also requires careful attention to their unique needs. Here are some key considerations for successfully raising ostrich chicks:
1. Brooding Environment: Ostrich chicks need a warm and dry environment for the first few weeks of life. A brooder with a heat lamp or other heat source is essential to maintain temperatures around 95°F (35°C) for the first week, gradually decreasing by about 5°F (3°C) per week until they are fully feathered.
2. Nutrition: Proper nutrition is crucial for the healthy development of ostrich chicks. They require a specialized diet high in protein to support their rapid growth. Commercially available ostrich chick starter feed or a high-protein game bird starter feed can be suitable. Additionally, providing access to clean, fresh water is essential for hydration and digestion.
3. Space Requirements: Ostrich chicks grow rapidly and require ample space to move around and exercise. As they grow, they will need progressively larger enclosures or outdoor pens. Ensure that the enclosure is safe from predators and has adequate protection from the elements.
4. Socialization: Ostrich chicks are social animals and benefit from interaction with other chicks or adult ostriches. If raising a single chick, consider providing a stuffed animal or mirror as a companion until they can join a group.
5. Healthcare: Regular health checks are important to monitor the well-being of ostrich chicks. Watch for signs of illness or injury, and consult a veterinarian experienced with birds if any concerns arise. Vaccinations and parasite control may also be necessary to prevent disease.
6. Weaning and Growth: Ostrich chicks can be weaned off starter feed onto a diet of pellets or grain mixtures around 8 to 12 weeks of age. Monitor their growth and adjust their diet accordingly to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition for healthy development.
7. Behavioral Enrichment: Providing enrichment activities, such as toys or objects for pecking and exploring, can help prevent boredom and promote natural behaviors.
Raising ostrich chicks requires commitment, knowledge, and attention to detail, but with proper care, they can grow into healthy adult ostriches. It's also important to check local regulations and zoning laws before embarking on an ostrich farming venture, as they may vary depending on your location.
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