From Flu Outbreak to High Court: B.C. Ostrich Cull Saga
Background
Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia, has spent over 10 months contesting a cull order issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The order mandates the extermination of hundreds of ostriches due to disease concerns. On November 6, 2025, the Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear the farm’s final appeal, allowing the cull to move forward.
Key Dates in the Ostrich Cull Dispute
- Early December 2024: An outbreak of flu-like symptoms affects the ostriches, killing 25 to 30 birds in about three weeks.
- December 28, 2024: CFIA intervenes after an anonymous tip about the deaths, which had previously gone unreported, and imposes a verbal quarantine order.
- December 31, 2024: Tests from two ostrich carcasses confirm H5 avian influenza, later identified as H5N1. CFIA issues a cull order, setting February 1, 2025, as the deadline to dispose of all affected birds.
- January 4–9, 2025: The farm requests an exemption from the cull, arguing the ostriches possess “rare and valuable genetics” that should be preserved.
- January 10, 2025: CFIA denies the exemption request.
"The farm applies for an exemption to the cull, saying the ostriches have 'rare and valuable genetics' worthy of preservation."
Summary
The B.C. ostrich culling case reflects a complex clash between disease control measures and the preservation of rare animal genetics, ultimately upheld by Canada’s highest court.