My second ostrich speaking engagement happened at the American Ostrich Association’s yearly meeting in Dallas, Texas. I was one of four well-known ostrich vets invited to speak to AOA members regarding health and veterinary issues for their million-dollar birds.

After talks finished in the early afternoon, the entire audience congregated in a large auditorium to have a doctor question and answer period. The speakers were seated on a stage, just as I had done in Reno. I felt a difference this time. I was less nervous and ready to add my opinion to various questions. Dr. Karen Hicks was sitting to my left, and Dr. Shivaprasad was on my right. We were discussing the topic of identifying an overweight condition in ostrich hens. I suggested these birds are easy to see by viewing them from the back. Their round body form reminded me of a woman wearing pantyhose too small for her.

Listen to the podcast to hear the audience’s reaction.