Ratites
Ratites (RAT-tites) are a world-wide family of flightless birds that includes the African ostrich, Australian emu and South American rhea. All three species are now being raised profitably on Tennessee farms. Ratites on the farm--really? Yes! There are currently an estimated 2.5 million emu alone on ranches across the United States, and about 1.2 million ostriches--and the industry is continuing to grow. These birds produce high quality meat, oil, leather, and feathers. In today's ratite market, there is no waste. Ratite meat is low in fat and cholesterol, high in iron and protein, and very tender. The leather from ostriches is strong with distinct feather quill marks and is also very soft and smooth to touch. The skin from the legs appears scaly and compares favorably to reptile leather. Skins are manufactured into wallets, handbags, shoes, belts, briefcases, upholstery and small portions of garments such as shoulder pads, vests and jackets.
There are several associations located in Tennessee of which the larger ones are the Tennessee Ratite Association (TRA) and the Tennessee Emu Association (TNEA). For more information contact:
Tennessee Dept of Agriculture
Market Development Division
P.O. Box 40627
Nashville, TN 37204
Phone: (615) 837-5160
Fax (615) 837-5194