The farm houses the biggest ostrich research unit in the world. Three registered ostrich units are located at the farm: an export registered slaughter production unit where chicks are reared to slaughter age, a breeding farm hosting the breeding flock, and a hatchery where eggs are artificially incubated.

Central to the research programme, is the ostrich breeding flock of approximately 400 birds. The breeding programme on the farm has been running since 1990.  The breeding research aims to improve productivity and product quality through genetic improvement.  The flock consists of South African Black (Struthio camelus var. domesticus) ostriches.

From 1996 separate breeding lines for egg production and body weight were introduced.  Since then, other traits of economic importance, such as leather and feather quality have also been added as breeding objectives.

Single pair mating is applied in the ostrich research flock to monitor individual productivity. Eggs are collected and artificially incubated at the on-farm hatchery. 

The chicks are used in research trails, slaughtered for research purposes, or kept for breeding purposes. Data from the flock is meticulously recorded throughout the production process for research purposes. All aspects of the ostrich production cycle are recorded, starting with the identification of each egg and chick by means of a unique number.  Careful record keeping during slaughter ensures that every carcass and skin can be traced back to the individual ostrich.   Data is also used for estimating breeding values for various ostrich traits of economic importance. Many of the chicks are sold day-old, while young breeder birds, selected on their breeding values, are annually auctioned to enable local producers to obtain superior breeding material for their own breeding flocks.

Research on feeding conducted on the farm assisted with the development of feeding standards and the evaluation of feedstuffs, enabling formulation of optimum rations at the lowest cost.  Other fields of study explored include reproduction physiology, incubation physiology, management, welfare, rearing conditions and housing for chicks.

Various scientists, students and academic institutions are involved in the research programme and make use of the data collected from this one-of-a-kind research flock.  A support team consisting of technical staff and workers are responsible for the daily maintenance of the ostrich flock, data collection and execution of research projects.

The researchers also work closely with the industry to ensure that research remains relevant. Research findings are continuously disseminated by means of lectures given at farmer’s days and congresses, publications in popular and scientific journals and magazines, and via the internet.  Practical information is passed on through extension officers and interaction with clients who visit the research centre and facilities for technical advice and information.  Training and education are addressed further by compiling information packages with practical up-to-date information for use by the commercial and emerging farming communities.