Democratic Sentinel, Volume 18, Number 15, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 27 April 1894 — On an Oatrich Farm. [ARTICLE]

On an Oatrich Farm.

Although incubators are used forthe hatching of ostriches on the South African farms, the natural mode has not been entirely superseded. A pair are put in a separate Inclosure, where the male bird i» forced to become a monogamist, and forsake, compulsorily, the creed of his forefathers. The hen lays about twenty eggs, and the period of incnbation lasts six weeks. During thin time the male bird is most attentive and solicitous in the care of the for nest there is practically none, any slightly sheltered sandy depression answering the purpose. It has been remarked that in the wild state egga are dropped in the vicinity of the nest, supposed to be broken by tto old birds for the nourishment of the young before acquiring that omnivorous appetite and remarkable digestion for which it is famous in later life. The instinct still, apparently, prevails, and it becomes necessary to frequently visit the nest to replace the eggs that are not covered, as the birds, although they will move them about to get into a comfortable position, will persist in leaving a few outside. During the breeding season the male bird becomes very and this time may be known by hie legs changing color to a beautiful red. In approaching the nest it ie necessary to be prepared to ward o* the attack of the male bird, as he ie then dangerous and does not hesitate to let you know he will have no interference. He is, however, an exemplary partner, taking his share at incubation during the night and on guard by day. Among the sparse and parched vegetation of the Karroo, the hen ostrich, when crouching down, as she does when danger is suspected, is difficult to see, assimilating so nearly in color to her surrounding*. —[The Sketch. ■ «, Among the pensioners of the United States government are no lean than 4,000 residents of foreign countries. There are 2,000 in Canada, GOD in Germany, and 750 in Great Britain. There are four pensioners in Africa. Four times a year a check in mailed to a pensioner in the Fiji islands, and no doubt he’s glad to get it.