Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia, is currently embroiled in a contentious legal battle over a cull order from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The situation has escalated over the course of nearly a year, and the Supreme Court of Canada will soon decide on the next steps regarding this order.
Background of the Cull Order
In early December 2024, an outbreak of flu-like symptoms affected the ostriches on the farm, resulting in the deaths of 25 to 30 birds during a three-week span. Following an anonymous report, the CFIA intervened on December 28, imposing a quarantine order after confirming the presence of H5N1 avian influenza in samples taken from deceased birds.
The CFIA issued a cull order shortly thereafter, setting February 1 as the deadline to dispose of the infected animals. The farm applied for an exemption, citing the ostriches’ rare genetics, but the request was denied on January 10, 2025. By January 15, the death toll had risen to 69 ostriches.
Legal Proceedings
- January 31, 2025: The Federal Court temporarily halts the cull order while reviewing the farm’s application for a judicial review.
- May 13, 2025: The court denies the farm’s review application, stating that CFIA’s actions were reasonable.
- June 20, 2025: A second stay is granted by the Federal Court of Appeal, allowing the farm more time to appeal.
- August 21, 2025: The court dismisses the farm’s appeal unanimously.
- September 12, 2025: A judge rules that the cull must proceed, stating the farm has not raised a significant issue for appeal.
Community Support and Events
During this turmoil, the farm became a focal point for community support. From May 16 to 18, hundreds gathered for “Ostrich Fest,” a music concert and protest against the cull order. The event highlighted local sentiments and brought attention to the plight of the birds.
Prominent figures have also engaged in the discourse. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and television personality Dr. Mehmet Oz have both reached out regarding the fate of the ostriches, suggesting alternatives to culling them.
Current Status of the Appeal
The Supreme Court is set to announce its decision on November 6, 2025, regarding whether to hear the farm’s final appeal. This announcement follows considerable public interest and has spurred ongoing protests at the farm.
In the meantime, the CFIA reported an additional death among the ostriches during its oversight, raising concerns on both sides regarding the well-being of the birds amidst the controversial cull order.
Conclusion
The fate of the ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farms hangs in a delicate balance as legal proceedings continue. The upcoming Supreme Court decision will be crucial in determining whether the cull order will be enforced or if the farm will receive further protections for its birds.
