San Diego's ostrich farms

San Diego's ostrich farms: A bittersweet tale of innovation and decline

San Diego, California, once home to a thriving ostrich farming industry, has seen its last ostrich farm close its doors. The decline of the industry is a bittersweet tale of innovation and decline.

At its peak in the 1990s, San Diego had over 20 ostrich farms, producing thousands of ostrich meat products and eggs. However, a combination of factors led to the industry's collapse.

"We were the pioneers in this industry. We brought ostrich farming to the States and made it a success,"

recalls one of the original ostrich farm owners, who wishes to remain anonymous. "But the market became saturated, and we couldn't compete with cheaper imports."

The rise of imported ostrich meat and eggs, often labeled as "US raised," further eroded the domestic market. Additionally, the ostriches themselves proved to be a challenging species to raise, with high mortality rates and feed costs.

The closure of the last ostrich farm in San Diego marks the end of an era for the industry. While some farmers have transitioned to other livestock, others have turned to alternative uses for their land and resources.

Author's note:

This article is a testament to the innovative spirit of San Diego's ostrich farming industry, which once thrived but ultimately succumbed to market forces and logistical challenges.

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Times of San Diego Times of San Diego — 2025-11-25

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