May 11
7
The introduction of programs in ostrich farming to improve the performance of our production stock is a key factor to tapping the potential of ostrich as a viable supplier of quality red meat.
First what is meant by “nutritional history” in this context? Ostrich Farming Production Depends on Quality Egg Production discussed the importance of producing quality eggs and the role of nutrition fed to the breeders. The photographic illustrations in Chick Mortality in Ostrich Farming demonstrated how poor breeder nutrition impacts the development of chicks at hatch – when the eggs are fertile and manage to hatch. Egg production targets in ostrich farming illustrates the current under performance and variability in performance within the ostrich industry.
This all illustrates the impact of nutrition on bird performance. So it makes sense that ostriches hatched with nutritional deficiencies can never produce to the potential of their underlying genetics. Therefore it is impossible to identify the better performing genetics. Once the heritage of the production stock comes from stock free from nutritional deficiencies then the stronger performing genetics can be identified and used for future breeding stock.
The following illustration summaries a way to classify livestock based on the nutritional history of their heritage (parentage). PN is Production Nutrition. PN assumes high standards of nutrition accompanied by high standards of feed and farm management. The role of nutrition in Ostrich Farming establishing the “Productive Value of Ostrich Rations”[25] explains how to identify rations designed for high production potential.
The following are the explanations for the each classification.
Class 6 – Any bird that has been on PN for at least 6 months. As it takes time to replenish lost nutrients, the first 6 months are a rebuilding process. Steady improvements will be seen on condition during these early months.
Class 5 – Birds can move to Class 5 when they have been on PN for a minimum of 2 years. It can take up to 2 years for PN to have an effect. Some birds may not respond and will require culling as they will never make commercially viable breeder birds.
Class 4 – Any bird that has been on PN since hatch. These birds may be hatched with immature Internal Organs and slow to get started – but should develop well and have reasonable production potential. They will be unable to produce to their full genetic potential, but should still produce well.
Now we move into livestock that have some genetic heritage of PN.
Class 3 – Birds on PN from hatch where both parents were classified Class 5 or Class 6.
Class 2 – Birds on PN from hatch with both parents classified Class 4.
Class 1 – Birds on PN from hatch and both parents have PN heritage. This is when the birds should be able to produce to their full genetic potential.
Understanding these principles are key to successful commercial ostrich farming.
