An attraction that is perfect for a family outing or a hang out with friends that are fellow animal lovers, Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm was established during 1998 and is located in Brgy. Malanang, Opol, Misamis Oriental. This farm has created its own name in the “must visits” list of not only students but also tourists. The farm was able to brand their animals as “Big Bird” and “Crocs”, which gives it a friendlier approach for kids and a cute nickname for adults.
For some it might be a boring trip at first but because of the rarity of the animals in the farm, people not only get interested with the animals aesthetic but also the people start to listen to the facts being told about them. A unique activity in the farm is getting the chance to break an uncracked ostrich egg. The shell is so hard that you will need a drill just to create a hole. But don’t worry, they only drill spoiled eggs and sell the shells as souvenirs. Another would be getting a chance to interact with the sheep around the farm. The sheep are allowed to roam free while there are visitors inside.
TRIVIA
Ostrich meat and mutton are healthy alternatives to red meat because of their low cholesterol and low calorie content. And also an ostrich can only be slaughtered for its meat at the age of 10-12 months because any time longer than that would result to harder meat that makes it difficult to slaughter.
PASALUBONG
The Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm surely have a unique way to make you remember what you experienced. There are empty ostrich eggs that are available for those with artistic hands or just want to have fun painting and for souvenirs as well. But if that is too much for your pocket, then just try to find the right balance in standing on top of the ostrich eggs. Yes, those eggs can carry YOU.
 |
| newly-hatched ostrich chicks |
 |
| more or less 1-week old ostrich chicks |
 |
| 3-4 month old ostriches |
TRAVEL NOTES
- Bring mosquito repellent. Better be safe than sorry than get bitten by those nasty little creatures
- Wear comfortable shoes that are perfect for cement ground
- Wear comfortable clothes that are great for hot weather
- Do not feed and try to touch the animals without consent. You wouldn’t want to be kicked by an ostrich, trust me
- DO NOT LITTER! These animals might mistake the garbage you throw as food
RATES
Entrance Fee (as of this writing):
- Child: Php15.00
- Student: Php20.00 Adult: Php30.00
HOW TO GET THERE
- Get a flight to Cagayan de Oro City (Laguindingan Airport) Tip: best to book your flight months ahead of your trip so the airfare wouldn’t be that expensive
- From Cagayan de Oro City, get to Opol via jeepney Tip: The landmark will be Opol Public Market or Panagatan Seafood Restaurant.
- At the back of Opol Public Market, hire a habal-habal (single motorcycles) that will take you to the farm
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Follow TRAVELING MORION's Journeys and Travels
Twitter| @travelingmorion
Facebook Page| Traveling Morion
Instagram | @travelingmorion
