Tears and Anger at B.C. Ostrich Farm After Supreme Court Decision
At the Universal Ostrich farm in British Columbia, emotions ran high after the Supreme Court dismissed a final appeal to halt the planned cull of the flock. Many supporters who had gathered earlier in the day slowly dispersed, returning to their vehicles, trailers, and temporary stays nearby.
Some visitors lingered, standing quietly by the large blue containment fences installed by the CFIA. They watched the ostriches moving in the field, taking photos, and softly calling out phrases like
"pretty bird, beautiful bird"— small gestures of comfort for the animals and perhaps for themselves after the devastating news.
Emotional Ties and a Fight for Survival
Up close, the ostriches’ size and behavior left a strong impression on those present. Many supporters had formed a deep connection with the birds, fueling their ongoing fight to prevent the cull. The sight of the flock moving together made it clear why people had rallied to save them.
Political Reaction
The political response has been minimal so far. One notable exception is Jordan Kealy, the Independent MLA representing Peace River North in northeastern B.C. Despite living far from the farm, Kealy has repeatedly visited Universal Ostrich this year to protest the cull order.
“It’s not sustainable,”
Kealy stated in a Facebook video posted earlier in the day. A farmer himself, he warned that all livestock owners should be alarmed by the CFIA’s power to order mass killings of animals following a single positive case of avian flu—a disease increasingly found among both wild and domestic populations.
Author’s Summary
The Supreme Court’s decision led to heartbreak at the B.C. ostrich farm, where supporters mourned the impending cull and questioned the system that allowed it.