What Do Ostriches Eat?

Ostriches are different than many other animals because of their ability to eat things such as sand, dirt and small rocks and pebbles, which they use to help grind up the food they eat. Their bodies have over 46 feet of tough, resilient intestines running through them and they have a tough gizzard that helps process hard items. The large birds derive their nutrients from plants and small animals.

  1. Insects

    • Ostriches eat insects that they come in contact with. Their favorites include moths, crickets and grasshoppers. They will also eat worms when they are present.

    Reptiles and Rodents

    • Frogs and small lizards are in danger of being eaten when confronted by ostriches. The birds also eat small rodents such as field mice.

    Plants and Vegetable

    • Ostriches eat grasses other vegetation that they come in contact with. They also enjoy treats such as carrots and broccoli, which are good for the birds since they contain a number of nutrients.

    Prepared Foods

    • Farm supply stores and pet stores sell a special pellet diet that contains grit such as oyster shells that is infused with vitamins and minerals for ostriches. If you are raising an ostrich, it is a good idea to supplement the bird's regular diet with this food to ensure that the animal gets the proper amount of nutrition.

    Water

    • Ostriches do not require water but they will drink when they are in contact with it and it will not harm them. They derive water from plants and vegetables they eat. Their bodies are equipped to dissipate water very slowly, thus requiring less of it than most other animals.