Effect of climate region and stocking density on ostrich (Struthio camelus) productive performances

Abstract

The effects of three climates (hot and dry, mild and humid and Alpine) and three flock densities (<100, 100–300 and >300 m2) on ostrich reproductive and productive traits were studied. Data were compared with the benchmark target sets by the World Ostrich Association (Ostrich benchmark Performance Targets. Version 2, May, 2008) for reproductive qualifications of ostrich. No significant difference was observed on egg production, weight, fertility, hatchability and day‐old chicks weight among the three climate conditions; however, the Alpine climate had a lower performance trend. Mild and humid climates had a significant effect of age at sexual maturity for both males and females as well as on the duration of egg production season. Stocking density did not show significant difference on egg production, hatchability, age of male and female at sexual maturity and on duration of egg production season, while an area >300 m2 showed a reduction in egg weight and day‐old chick weight. Further, an area <100 m2 led to a weaker ostrich fertility rate. Results showed that the ostrich would have a better performance under hot and dry and mild and humid climates as compared to Alpine climate with a stocking density of 100–300 m2 area per breeder bird. Thus, climatic intervention strategies at Alpine regions may be carried out for maintaining optimal reproductive qualification of ostrich so as to improve the productivity in this sector.