Overview of the B.C. Ostrich Cull Saga
Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia, has fought for over ten months against a government cull order from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), which threatened to kill hundreds of birds. The Supreme Court of Canada announced it would not hear the farm's final appeal, allowing the cull to proceed.
Key Events Timeline
Early December 2024
An outbreak of what farmers describe as “flu-like” symptoms occurs among the ostriches, resulting in 25 to 30 deaths over three weeks.
December 28, 2024
The CFIA intervenes after receiving an anonymous report of the deaths at the farm, which had previously gone unreported. It imposes a verbal quarantine order.
December 31, 2024
Samples from two carcasses test positive for H5 avian influenza, later confirmed as H5N1. The CFIA immediately issues a cull order, setting February 1 as the deadline for the disposal of affected birds.
February 4-9, 2025
The farm applies for an exemption to the cull, arguing that the ostriches possess “rare and valuable genetics” that should be preserved.
February 10, 2025
The CFIA denies the exemption request.
Author's summary
The B.C. ostrich cull saga highlights ongoing conflicts between agricultural conservation and government health measures amid bird flu outbreaks, culminating in a court decision allowing the cull to proceed.