How long do ostriches live
Ostriches live 30–40 years in captivity. Longevity depends on proper fencing, nutrition, and disease prevention (notably avian influenza biosecurity and parasite control). Young chicks are fragile and need brooder heat; most losses are in the first months from chilling or drowning in open water.
Space, fencing, and the lethal kick
Adults need acres of well-fenced range with sight barriers to reduce panic. Fencing must be 5–6 ft (1.5–1.8 m) and strong — ostriches run through weak wire. Never turn your back in a confined space; a cornered bird kicks forward with clawed feet. Handle only with experienced help.
Diet and chick dangers
Ostriches eat a high-fiber ration (commercial ostrich feed) plus forage; they are browsers, not grazers like cattle. Chicks need starter crumble and brooder heat (90°F / 32°C declining). Open water buckets drown chicks — use nipples. Overfeeding protein causes leg deformities. Grit aids digestion.
Not a pet — full stop
Every year people are injured or killed by "pet" ostriches. They are not domesticated in the dog sense and never will be. Keep them as livestock on appropriate land with livestock handling, not as a novelty. If you cannot manage a 300-lb bird with a killing kick, this species is not for you.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Treating an ostrich like a big chicken — it is lethal livestock.
- Weak or low fencing — they escape or injure themselves.
- Open water for chicks — drowning is common.
- Handling alone in a corner — the kick is fatal.