Live Ostriches and Emus

Certain ostrich subspecies, particularly the North African ostrich (Struthio camelus camelus), are listed under CITES Appendix I, while others fall under Appendix II. Importers must verify the subspecies and obtain the appropriate CITES documentation from the US Fish & Wildlife Service. Captive-bred ostriches from registered breeding operations may qualify for simplified CITES procedures, but documentation must be in order before shipment.

Most live ratite imports are for breeding stock to supply domestic farms producing ostrich and emu meat, leather, feathers, and oil. The US has an established domestic ratite farming sector, so live imports tend to be for genetic diversification or to establish new operations rather than for direct slaughter, though APHIS health and permit requirements apply regardless of intended use. Consulting a licensed customs broker is advisable given the complexity of ratite import compliance.