Supporters of a British Columbia ostrich farm are rallying in response to the recent court ruling that denied the farm's appeal to prevent the culling of its ostrich flock, which was found to be infected with avian flu. The Universal Ostrich Farm, located in Edgewood, British Columbia, is facing the cull after a significant health crisis affecting its birds.
In a social media group managed by the farm's spokeswoman, Katie Pasitney, many supporters have indicated their intention to travel to the property. Some are booking flights, while others are planning road trips. There are suggestions for organizing a convoy or even reaching out to U.S. officials to explore the possibility of relocating the birds across the border. However, a spokesperson for Federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel has clarified that there has been no communication with U.S. counterparts on this issue.
The court appeal, ruled on August 17, 2025, marked a significant setback for the Universal Ostrich Farm, which sought to challenge an order from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The CFIA's decision to cull approximately 400 ostriches was initially made in December 2024, following the discovery of H5N1 avian flu in two deceased birds on the farm. This outbreak has led to the death of a total of 69 birds between December 2024 and January 2025, fueling fears about the health of the remaining flock.
Despite the farm's claims that the surviving birds are currently healthy, the CFIA insists that the culling is a necessary measure. The agency highlights that exposed flocks can pose significant risks, as they can facilitate mutations of the virus. Additionally, the CFIA cites ongoing risks to both animal and human health, as well as potential implications for Canada’s export market for poultry products.
As tension escalates over the situation, the farm has emphasized the need for support for the ostriches, urging advocates to come to the property to "sit with animals that need protection." The CFIA, on the other hand, has remained tight-lipped about its operational plans regarding the cull, although an update on its website indicates ongoing preparations for "humane depopulation with veterinary oversight at the infected premises."
This situation reflects broader concerns surrounding animal health management in the face of zoonotic diseases, such as avian flu, and raises significant questions about animal welfare and public health policy. As the legal and health landscape continues to unfold, the Universal Ostrich Farm and its supporters remain determined to contest the cull while the CFIA remains committed to its mandate of safeguarding public health and animal welfare.
