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North Carolina Ostrich Breeders Association

Ostrich Facts In An Eggshell

• Ratites are flightless birds and include ostrich, emu, rhea, kiwi, cassowary.
• Laying season usually varies March through September.
• Incubation takes 42-43 days.
• Slaughter age is 12-14 months.
• Red meat is lower in cholesterol, fat, and calories than beef or poultry.
• Usual annual egg production 20-40 eggs.
• Males reach adulthood about 2 1/2 years old, female 2 years.
• Live 70-80 years in wild, reach height of 7-8 feet. Weight of 250-350 pounds.
• Major products: leather, meat, feathers.
  
• One ostrich egg will feed thirteen people
  
• Three breeds: redneck, blueneck and African black
  
• Non-fertile eggs are blown out and used for crafts
  
• The adult bird has the most efficient immune system on earth
  
• The ostrich is a prehistoric bird
  

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