Ostrich (Struthio camelus) feather production and research: an historic overview

SUMMARY The domestication of ostriches and commercialisation of ostrich farming started in South Africa in the 19th century for the production and harvesting of feathers. Ostrich feathers were the primary product of farmed ostriches until the collapse of the feather market in 1914. Because ostrich feathers are not used for flying, they have different attributes than other bird feathers, which makes them unique and valued. This review summarises knowledge regarding ostrich feather production and research since the feather industry has again become an important contributor to the farmers’ income in South Africa, which supplies most of the ostrich feathers used worldwide. Wing feathers on ostriches grow at a rate of 2.5 to 5 cm per week, which varies based on the bird’s age and nutritional status. Adult birds can produce 380–400 g of white plume. Factors such as good husbandry practices, age, sex, breed, nutrition and climate can affect feather production. In addition, genetic selection can be used to increase feather quantity and quality because the heritability of these feather production variables is significant and in the low to moderate range. Developments in these disciplines are summarised, and recommendations for future research are made.