How to Build Shelters for Ostriches

Ostriches pens are easy to build structures that benefit your ostriches' health. They offer the freedom of space and allow for physical exercise and increased playful interaction. This combination is beneficial to your ostriches not only physically but also mentally. Here are the steps for building an ostrich shelter.

Things You'll Need

  • Sand
  • Wire mesh
  • Fence posts
  • Gates
  • Feeder
  • Waterer
  • Environmentally friendly spray marker
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Instructions

    • 1

      Consider the size you want for your pen or shelter. It depends on how many birds you plan on having. For a breeding pair, allow for a space of at least around 60 by 20 feet, but if possible, closer to 200 by 50 feet.

    • 2

      Mark your spaces, including gates and at least one escape route. Plan a gate that restricts access to the indoor facility. Allow for two gates total, one which can switch to connect to the building blocking the door and the other a standard gate which gives external access.

    • 3

      Place your posts giving special attention to the gates.

    • 4

      Mount your wire mesh. You can use chainlink material, but that might injure your ostriches' limbs.

    • 5

      Plan and install your ground cover. Grasses are acceptable for the majority of the pen, but mark an area of sand for ostrich rolling. This area should be at least 30 square feet, but it can encompass the entire pen too.

    • 6

      Hang your feeder and waterer in a place that allows internal access for the ostriches and external access for filling.