Due to the growth of the ostrich market in Belgium and the neighbourin
g countries, it has become necessary to acquire a greater knowledge ab
out nutritional requirements of this species. Being neotenous birds, r
atites are adapted to life in an arid habitat. Because of their excell
ent fermentative capacity and specific digestive system, they are good
fiber digesters. The ideal fiber and energy contents of ostrich feeds
is currently under study. The importance of protein levels, minerals,
vitamins and other nutritional requirements is emphasized, together w
ith behavioural pecularities. These vary in accordance with the physio
logical status of the birds with respect to maintenance, growth and br
eeding.