Idaho-Based Ostrich Farm Pulls ‘Humane’ Claims Following PETA Lawsuit

For Immediate Release:
September 22, 2025

Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382

Idaho-based American Ostrich Farms is no longer claiming that it treats ostriches “humanely” or “ethically” following a lawsuit from PETA, filed on behalf of Washington, D.C. consumers. The lawsuit was prompted by damning whistleblower images and reports of abuse given to PETA, including that workers kicked birds using extreme force, hit them with shepherd’s hooks, and shoved their boots into the animals’ genital openings saying, “I’m gonna f*** you in the a**.” The farm has dropped claims about “humane” and “ethical” treatment, and today, PETA and American Ostrich Farms agreed to dismiss the lawsuit.

An ostrich’s bone was exposed due to frostbite, according to the whistleblower. Credit: Amanda Worman

“Whistleblowers reported workers at American Ostrich Farms kicking birds, slitting their throats, and leaving them to suffer from frostbite, all while the company tried to dupe consumers with humane washing claims,” says PETA Deputy General Counsel and Director of Litigation Asher Smith. “PETA asks everyone to help prevent animals from suffering on farms and in slaughterhouses by please going vegan.”

While ostriches can live for more than 40 years, those on farms are typically slaughtered around their first birthday. According to the American Ostrich Farms whistleblowers, workers sometimes stepped on birds’ necks to hold their heads down before shooting them and other workers cut chicks’ throats while they were still conscious. Multiple PETA investigations of self-proclaimed “humane” facilities have similarly uncovered widespread cruelty, deprivation, and suffering—including workers kicking, beating, and throwing animals and denying treatment to sick and injured animals.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat or abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits and free vegan starter kits for anyone thinking of making the switch. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.