Kerala, India
Feeding of Growing Birds: The pre-starter and starter mesh are complete rations and can be used as the only feed. For the economic production of slaughter birds it is necessary to add lucerne to the growth mesh, from 16 weeks of age. It is important to gradually change over a period of 3 weeks from starter mesh to growth mesh with lucerne to make sure the bird will eat.
Feeding of Breeding Birds:
The Resting Period: The resting period is March, April and May. During this period there can be a gradual change to maintenance concentrate mixed with lucerne, to enable birds to gradually lose condition.
Flushing: Three weeks before the breeding season birds can gradually be changed to the finisher or breeding ration with 40% added lucerne. The aim with flushing is to stimulate mating behaviour due to the body weight that increases.
Breeding Period: Feed 60% ostrich breeding mesh and 40% lucerne for optimal production. Total intake should be 2.2kg.