Jun 11
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Defects in Ostrich Eggs and the Causes
Profitability in Ostrich Farming starts with ensuring quality eggs. ostrich eggs experience defects that are similar to other egg laying species. Before discussing causes, it is best to identify common types of defects that are experienced.
Extremes in Egg in egg sizes: Experience has indicated that egg weights of ostrich fed a balanced diet will range between around 1400grams and 1800grams – with genetics determining which end of the spectrum the eggs fall. Anything below or above those ranges should be considered extreme, regardless of the genetics of those birds.
Wrinkled Eggshells: These are egg shells that have a wrinkled appearance.
Chalky Eggshells: These are eggs displaying a chalking appearance – they lack the normal gloss finish….but rather have a matt (rough) appearance and feel.
Skin Eggs: These are eggs that do not have the normal hard finish to them. To the touch they are soft and spongy.
Porosity Problems: In order to incubate correctly egg shells need to provide adequate porosity. Most importantly to enable adequate air exchange to support the developing embryo. The pores on the shell should be deep, very distinct and many of them.
Egg Shells to hard: When an egg shell is too hard, the chick has a tough time breaking through at time of hatching.
Nutrition must always remain at the top of the list for egg deformity issues in all egg laying specie. Other factors such as environment and genetics remain important considerations. Once nutrition can be ruled out as a cause – what are other possible issues?
Wrinkled or misshaped eggs – a known cause is disturbance of the hen as she was about to lay the egg. Infection in the egg tract can also be a contributing cause.
Skin Eggs – these are eggs laid with no hard shell. If this happens, look for an egg with a double shell….this can be when something goes wrong with the timing that causes an additional shell to go onto one egg at the expense of another egg. As with wrinkled or misshapen eggs, this may be caused by disturbance.
Porosity issues are generally nutritional. If nutrition can be ruled out check the genetics. When checking genetics keep an eye on the breeders’ nutritional history.
At this time nutrition remains the number one cause to any egg deformity and also fertility and hatching issues in ostrich farming.
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