Feeding an Ostrich: My Personal Experience, Tips, and Advice

Feeding an ostrich is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. As the world’s largest bird, ostriches are truly fascinating creatures. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience feeding an ostrich, along with real-life challenges, tips, dos and don’ts, prices, safety measures, and what to wear.

My Ostrich Feeding Experience

I had the incredible opportunity to feed ostriches at the Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm in South Africa. The farm offers a unique experience that allows visitors to learn about ostriches, their behavior, and even the opportunity to feed these majestic birds.

Real-Life Challenges

During my visit, I faced a few challenges, such as:

1. Overcoming fear: Ostriches are large birds, and their size can be intimidating, especially when they’re eating out of your hand.
2. Handling the food: Feeding ostriches requires you to hold the food correctly to ensure their safety and yours.
3. Timing: These birds can be quite fast when eating, making it essential to be prepared and focused.

Tips and Dos & Don’ts

To make the most of your ostrich feeding experience, follow these tips and dos and don’ts:

Do:

• Research beforehand: Learn about ostriches and their behavior by visiting websites like Wikipedia and Ostriches Online.
• Listen to the handlers: Pay close attention to the instructions provided by the farm staff.
• Be patient: Ostriches might take some time to approach you, so be patient and give them space.
• Capture the moment: Take photos or videos to remember your unique experience.

Don’t:

• Force interaction: If an ostrich seems disinterested or uncomfortable, respect its boundaries and don’t force it to interact.
• Tease the ostrich: Avoid waving the food around or pulling it away as the ostrich tries to eat.
• Touch their heads: Ostriches can be sensitive about their heads, so avoid touching them.

Prices

The cost of feeding an ostrich can vary depending on the farm or wildlife park you visit. At Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm, the ostrich feeding experience is included in the general admission fee, which is around ZAR 120 for adults and ZAR 60 for children.

Safety

Safety is paramount when feeding ostriches. Here are a few essential tips:

• Follow the rules: Abide by the farm’s guidelines to ensure the safety of both you and the ostriches.
• Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the ostriches to avoid accidentally getting pecked.

What to Wear

When feeding ostriches, opt for comfortable and casual clothing that allows you to move easily. Closed-toe shoes are recommended, as they provide protection for your feet.

My Advice

Feeding an ostrich is a thrilling experience that I highly recommend to anyone seeking a unique wildlife encounter. It’s essential to plan ahead, follow the farm’s guidelines, and be respectful of the ostriches’ needs to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

In conclusion, feeding an ostrich is an exciting adventure that brings you closer to these extraordinary birds. With a little preparation and adherence to safety guidelines, you can create lasting memories while learning more about these fascinating creatures.