Urgent: B.C. Ostrich Farm Fights Cull Order for 385 Birds

UPDATE: Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia, has just petitioned the federal agriculture minister to immediately rescind a cull order affecting its flock of 385 ostriches. This urgent move comes after a lengthy legal battle sparked by an avian influenza outbreak that led the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to mandate the cull on December 31, 2024.

The farm argues that instead of culling, a “scientifically validated, risk-managed protocol” should be approved to allow their flock to recover. Universal Ostrich Farms insists it holds the only ostrich flock in Canada capable of surviving avian influenza, with 239 consecutive disease-free days under CFIA quarantine. The farm claims the birds have demonstrated an impressive natural immunity, with 85 percent survival rates compared to near-total mortality in other species.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity,” stated Katie Pasitney, spokesperson for Universal Ostrich Farms. “Destroying these birds now, after eight months of documented health, would eliminate a living laboratory that could help protect Canada’s poultry industry in the future.” The farm emphasizes that the potential loss affects not just the birds, but also 85 rural jobs and $3.5 million in research partnerships aimed at enhancing avian immunity.

In a media release on September 11, 2024, the farm requested the agriculture minister take action within 15 days to avert what they describe as an “irreversible” loss. They are asking for the rescindment of the cull order, designation of the flock for research purposes, approval of their alternative control protocol with independent oversight, and authorization for immediate confirmatory testing through both CFIA and third-party labs.

Despite their efforts, the Federal Court of Appeal has dismissed the farm’s stay motion, allowing the cull to proceed. It remains unclear when the CFIA plans to execute the cull, leaving the farm in a precarious position. They have been operating without revenue since December while adhering strictly to bio-security protocols and fulfilling CFIA requirements.

Amid this crisis, Universal Ostrich Farms is calling for an urgent response from the minister to prevent the destruction of these birds, which they believe could lead to significant advancements in disease preparedness for the poultry industry.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops, and how it may impact the future of avian research in Canada.