ALL ABOUT OSTRICH EGGS

Ostriches are the largest bird in the world. It’s no surprise then that they have the largest eggs. Native to Africa, ostriches are now found on every continent in the world. They belong to a group called birds called ratites — birds that don’t fly. Besides the ostrich, this group includes birds such as the rhea, emu, and kiwi to name just a few.
An ostrich egg ranges in color from tan to bone-white and is very shiny. An ostrich hen can lay 1 or 2 eggs a week during their breeding season (between April and September) and might produce eggs for up to 30 years.
Just how big are ostrich eggs? They are approximately 6 inches long and 5 inches wide. They weigh on average 3 pounds and contains almost 2 pounds of egg protein. The eggs are the equivalent of 2 dozen chicken eggs

WHAT TO DO WITH OSTRICH EGGS IN THE MODERN DAY?

Ornamental ostrich eggshells are still used today in North African homes. They may adorn the roofs of straw huts, or be gilded and placed in a chandelier.
The shells are also used in jewelry and small ornaments. Small discs and shapes are cut from the shell to use in necklaces, pendants, belts, and anklets.
Ostrich eggs are also being studied by scientists trying to develop new treatments for viruses and bacteria.
Yasuhiro Tsukamoto is the Dean of Veterinary Science at Kyoto Prefecture University in Japan. He has studied ostrich eggs for a number of years. He is trying to discern if there is a way to customize the antibodies from an unfertilized egg to make medicines for humans. His research is still in the pre-clinical phase and hasn’t been published or peer-reviewed. But some of his work shows promise in being able to neutralize the dengue virus.

VARIETY OF USES FOR OSTRICH EGGS

Although it’s a little impractical to eat them, there are a variety of reasons someone may want to know where to buy ostrich eggs. They’re especially perfect for decorating and painting projects.
It’s important to find a reputable farm source, such as American Ostrich Farms, for your eggshells. And while you’re here, be sure to check out other products we have available like ostrich meat and our ostrich soaps and oils!