The Big Birds of Buellton
OstrichLand U.S.A. Offers Jerky, Eggs, and Old-Time Roadside Kitsch
The world’s largest living bird lays an egg that is equivalent in size to 18-24 chicken eggs (3-5 pounds). Fifty ostriches and emus (a smaller Australian cousin) inhabit OstrichLand U.S.A. (610 E. Hwy. 246, Buellton; 686-9696; ostrichlandusa.com), a Buellton ranch that is open to the public for gazing, feeding, touring, and unique gift purchases. Fresh ostrich eggs are available nearly year-round, while fresh emu eggs are available during the winter/spring season. Visitors can also purchase savory treats such as addictive ostrich jerky and frozen ostrich meat. At the ranch, the two-toed birds are not raised for meat; instead, it is brought in from businesses that raise ostriches exclusively for consumption. Similar in flavor to lean beef, ostrich meat is a healthy option for meat lovers seeking alternative sources and recipes.
