How to Build an Ostrich House

Ostriches are members of the ratite species, which means they are flightless birds. It is not recommended that ostriches be kept as pets because of their large size and aggressive behavior. Commercial operations raise the birds for meat, hide, feathers and eggs, which necessitates several breeding pairs. Since they are so large they require lots of space. Most farms should encompass at least three or four acres, and pen sizes should be from a quarter to half an acre.

Things You'll Need

  • Wooden posts
  • Single-stranded wire
  • Sand
  • Wood or metal panels
  • Chain link fencing or wooden corrals
  • Shade cloth
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Livestock gates
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Instructions

    • 1

      Assess the environment before placing a pen in certain areas. Ensure that there are shade trees for windbreak and sandy soil that drains well. Land should consist of gently sloping hills.

    • 2

      Ensure that there is electricity and a supply of fresh water. Provide at least 7,500 to 15,000 square feet of land to prevent overcrowding. Increase the size of the pens using the rule of 50 feet per bird if you are adding breeding animals to the herd.

    • 3
      Ostrich farms should cover at least three to four acres.

      Measure the area of your pen according to the number and age of birds you will be holding. Place wooden fencing posts approximately 10 feet apart and make sure they are located outside the fencing material. Extend the fencing to a height of 6 feet, making sure it is firm enough not to sag, but is not taut enough to injure a bird if it runs at it.

    • 4

      Build a 45-degree angle into rounded corners of the pen for hens to escape roosters. Erect perimeter fencing of 5 to 6 feet in height on the outside of the pen fencing or add small-link wire fencing to the bottom 18 inches of the pen fence to keep the ostriches safe from predators. Fill in gaps in the fencing or around gates with boards or fill material to prevent injuries.

    • 5

      Construct a shelter with 60 to 80 feet per bird within the pen for them to escape bad weather and obtain shade. Use plywood or metal sheets to create a three-sided shed. Attach a sun shade of cloth, metal or wood over the shelter. Build alternative ostrich housing such as heated four-sided barns or bale barns consisting of stacked squares of hay according to climate and farming needs.