BONUS SPRING SUMMER 2025

What does thismean for ostrich chick management? Considering the importance of a diverse gut microbiome for growth and survival, on-farm management should strive to preserve and improve the gut health of ostrich chicks. In nature, a newly hatched ostrich chick acquires its microbial gut flora from its immediate surroundings that contain favourable bacteria from its mother and other adult ostriches. Chicks reared commercially are not exposed to the same microorganisms as naturally hatched chicks and will acquire bacteria from the rearing unit surroundings instead. These chicks are also often hatched long after the natural breeding season of ostriches, exposing them to weather conditions less ideal for their health and performance. Steps for assisting in the development of healthy gut microflora by limiting stressors: • Newly hatched chicks are comfortable at around 26–27ºC. Fluctuating temperatures will lead to heat and cold stress. Temperature stress is believed to be a common trigger for enteritis. • Chick housing and runs should be cleaned, dried and disinfected properly before chicks arrive. • Ensure enough feeder space and drinking space per pen. • Test the water sources at the start of chick season to ensure optimal water quality and avoid bacterial contamination through drinking water. Water is the most important nutrient we provide for our animals! • Use a well-formulated starter ration to provide chicks up to 12 weeks with the correct balance of energy, protein, and fibre. • Avoid overstocking. Ostrich chicks need enough space to be active and move around comfortably. • Provide appropriate ventilation when chicks are kept indoors. Ammonia and carbon dioxide build-up will lead to respiratory stress. • Reserve the use of antibiotics only for sick animals. Using antibiotics prophylactically may alter the gut microbiome and kill healthy bacteria as well. • Limit handling the chicks as much as possible. When chicks are handled, it must be done quietly and slowly – no shouting and chasing. • Vaccination against Clostridium exists, but can be expensive and often the vaccinations are not registered for use in ostriches. Further research on the efficacy of these vaccines in juvenile ostriches needs to be done. • There is limited evidence suggesting that including some strains of Lactobacillus in the diet up to two weeks of age can positively influence survival in ostrich chicks. Further research is needed, but the use of probiotics may have a positive effect on chick survival. • Preventing and managing mycotoxins in feed. Mycotoxins disrupt the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and can cause leaky gut, which can be attributed to Clostridium overgrowth. • Ensure a clear biosecurity protocol is implemented and understood by staff. This can include using clean PPE, Spring/Summer 2025 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 24