In 2025, an ostrich farm in British Columbia became a center of attention in both Canada and the U.S. when the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) took action to cull a large flock of birds early in November.
The story began when Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood faced an outbreak of avian flu in December 2024, leading to the death of 69 birds. To prevent the spread of the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus, a cull order was placed for the remaining ostriches.
Originally given a deadline of February 1 to dispose of the birds, the farm’s plans were halted when they requested a judicial review, citing the rare and valuable genetics of the surviving ostriches.
This initiated a lengthy legal battle that progressed through various court rulings, eventually reaching the Supreme Court. The controversial involvement of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and health official Dr. Mehmet Oz added to the drama surrounding the case, attracting supporters and protesters alike.
Despite protests and interventions, the CFIA ultimately proceeded with the cull after the final court decision on November 6. The operation took place overnight, with more than 300 ostriches being culled by the morning of November 7, fulfilling the order issued ten months earlier.