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B.C. Ostrich Cull Faces Growing Pushback from Politicians and Community

Despite a Federal Court ruling allowing the cull, local officials and supporters are urging the CFIA to delay and conduct further testing.

Some 20 people protested in Vernon Thursday morning against a cull order that will see nearly 400 ostriches destroyed.
A herd of ostriches is seen on a remote farm in Edgewood, B.C., in an undated photo supplied by Universal Ostrich Farms Inc.
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Overview

  • The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) plans to cull 400 ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, B.C., citing exposure to avian flu and the need to prevent viral persistence.
  • Conservative MP Scott Anderson is working to delay the cull, suggesting the birds may hold research value and arguing they appear healthy.
  • The Regional District of Central Kootenay passed a resolution asking the CFIA for additional avian flu testing before accepting the carcasses at its landfill.
  • Dozens of supporters, responding to a call from the farm's owner, have gathered at the property to physically block the cull, setting up tents and vehicles around the farm.
  • The case has sparked broader concerns in Canada’s animal husbandry sector about the scope of federal culling powers and their economic and emotional impact on farmers.