Abstract: A method is disclosed for the humane slaughter and processing of ratites, including but not limited to, ostrich and emu, which are generally very large, heavy, and hostile animals, on a mass scale while preserving the quality of body parts during removal. The method envisions transporting the ratites from station to station within a facility via a rail system and cradle. The cradle is provided for holding the ratite during the processing of body parts and for permitting movement of the ratite through the various stations. The processing methodology of the preferred embodiment comprises the following steps. First, each ratite is rendered unconscious by an electrical discharge to the ratite body. The ratites are hung in an inverted position on the rail system. The ratites are then killed by lacerating the arteries in the neck and also the windpipe. The head of each ratite is removed and useful parts are extracted. Next, each ratite is de-feathered and skinned so that the hide is not damaged during removal.