Gunshots Fired at B.C. Ostrich Farm During Controversial Cull
The Supreme Court of Canada decided not to hear a final appeal against an order to cull a flock of ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia. This ruling removed any legal barriers for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to proceed with the planned depopulation.
Following the decision, numerous gunshots were heard within an enclosure made of hay bales, where the CFIA had gathered over 300 ostriches. Supporters of the farm protested loudly, shouting
“Stop!”and
“Murderers!”during the operation, which took place after dark.
The CFIA confirmed it is moving forward with the complete depopulation and disposal of the entire flock. This action follows more than ten months after the agency initially ordered the cull due to an avian flu outbreak among the birds.
The exact method of euthanasia has not been detailed, but the CFIA manual describes several potential methods, such as breaking necks, lethal injection, gassing, or shooting.
The Supreme Court of Canada’s ruling removes any legal impediment for the planned cull to proceed.
Despite public outcry, the authorities continue the operation under federal orders aimed at controlling disease spread.
Summary: The Supreme Court cleared the way for the CFIA to cull over 300 ostriches at a B.C. farm amid an avian flu outbreak, despite protests and concerns over the methods used.