Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm

Yesterday, Wednesday, we went into the mountains to visit a town called Oudtshoorn. This is an area known for developing the ostrich feather market in the late 1880's. Ostrich feathers were brining more per ounce than even gold during the peak market years. By the early 1900's only gold, diamonds and wool ranked higher than ostrich feathers in exported goods.

This is in the town of Oudtshoorn.

Many large mansions were built with the wealth generated.

We got to visit a working farm and saw the different stages of growth.

The egg shells are strong enough for even a person my size can stand on them without breaking. The ostrich hen has to lay the eggs on a hard surface and then uses their breastbone to crack the shell when it is time for them to hatch.

Some of the lighter ones of the group were given a chance to sit on and even ride an ostrich.

They have ostrich races.

We were served an ostrich steak for lunch. I was surprised at how tender and tasty it was.

The drive through the mountains offered some fantastic scenery.

This is looking across the water at the town of Knysna where we have been staying for a few nights. It is a beautiful waterfront town.

It is spring time here and there are some beautiful flowers blooming.