DAILY SLAUGHTER OF OSTRICHES.

Dunstan Times, Issue 3379, 20 June 1927, Page 7

DAILY SLAUGHTER OF OSTRICHES.

So low in fashion's favor have ostrich feathers sunk that they are now being used for making dusters! This is the latest phase in the decline of a South African industry which only a few years ago was of considerable commercial importance. Details just received show that the ostrich feather trade is on the verge of extinction. _ Between 4DO and 500 birds are being slaughtered dailv in the Oudishoorn district of Cape Colony, Seven regular slaughtering places have been established. Where there were onoe 200,000 to 250.000, there are now probably not more than 45,000. The slump in the world : ’s feather market has robbed the birds of their value, and now the long-continued drought has made them a luxury that owners cannot afford. Since the beginning of December hardly any rain has fallen, and the summer has been one of the most scorching ever experienced. The only food available for the birds is prickly pear, and even that is made costly by the expense of transport. At the present rate of slaughter _ few ostriches will be left- after the winter.