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Supporters Rally to Block Ostrich Cull After Federal Court Upholds CFIA Order

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s directive to cull 400 ostriches at a B.C. farm is set to proceed, as dozens of supporters gather to protest the decision.

A herd of ostriches is seen on a remote farm in Edgewood, B.C., in an undated photo supplied by Universal Ostrich Farms Inc. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Katie Pasitney *MANDATORY CREDIT*
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Universal Ostrich co-owner Karen Espersen posted a plea on Facebook for supporters to come 'surround' her farm in an effort to stop her birds from being culled.

Overview

  • A Federal Court ruling on May 13, 2025, upheld the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) order to cull 400 ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, B.C., following an avian influenza outbreak.
  • Farm owners argue that surviving ostriches have developed herd immunity and could provide valuable research insights, challenging the necessity of the cull.
  • Dozens of supporters have arrived at the farm, responding to calls from the owners to physically block the cull and protect the birds.
  • The Regional District of Central Kootenay has confirmed its landfill is prepared to handle the disposal of the birds, though the CFIA has not disclosed the timing of the cull.
  • B.C. Premier David Eby has criticized the CFIA's approach, urging the federal government to ensure fair compensation for the farm, capped at $3,000 per bird under the court ruling.