Hundreds of Ostriches at B.C. Farm to Be Culled After Court Dismisses Appeal
The atmosphere has calmed around the Universal Farm in Edgewood, British Columbia. Although some ostriches remain in the fields, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) officers appear to have temporarily halted their efforts to capture the birds.
According to witnesses, the corral area is surrounded by tall walls of straw bales, which obscure much of the activity inside. Supporters remain on the nearby road, though their earlier shouting and chants have subsided.
The CFIA has confirmed its intention to destroy the flock, but the timeline and the number of birds, if any, already euthanized remain uncertain. CBC noted that updates will follow on their website as the situation develops.
Farm’s Response and Future Plans
Representatives of Universal Ostrich Farm have vowed to continue their campaign for changes to CFIA regulations, even if the cull proceeds. After today’s court decision, their legal options are nearly exhausted, but their determination remains strong.
“They will pay for everything they’ve done here,” said farm spokesperson Katie Pasitney. “We will hold you accountable.”
Pasitney emphasized the farm's long-term goal to challenge the CFIA’s “stamping-out” policy, which mandates the killing of all birds in a flock infected with avian influenza.
Author’s Summary
The Universal Farm tragedy highlights growing public resistance to Canada’s strict avian flu policies as one B.C. community rallies to protect its ostriches from mass culling.