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36m ago

CFIA Secures B.C. Ostrich Farm as Preparations Begin for H5N1 Cull

Authorities cite disease-control imperatives tied to a confirmed H5N1 outbreak.

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Supporters have flocked to Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, B.C., to protest a cull order. Some local businesses say they have faced harassment as a result, according to RCMP.

Overview

  • The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is preparing to euthanize about 400 ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farms near Edgewood, B.C., with no start time confirmed.
  • A three-metre-high wall of hay bales and workers in protective suits were observed on site, and the ostrich pen has been under CFIA control since Monday.
  • Co-owners Karen Espersen and her daughter, Katie Pasitney, were arrested after refusing to leave the enclosure and later released, with the RCMP citing obstruction of CFIA duties.
  • Co-owner Dave Belinski left the pen earlier to remove a truck from the enclosure.
  • The BC SPCA said CFIA is the decision-making authority for avian-flu control in the case and that euthanasia may be appropriate when illness is untreatable or poses a serious public-health risk.