Supporters rally around B.C. ostrich farm after appeal court upholds cull order
Universal Ostrich Farms challenges cull after 69 ostriches died from H5N1; Canadian Food Inspection Agency cites ongoing health and export risks, officials and protests oppose the order.
- The Federal Court of Appeal rejected Universal Ostrich Farms' bid to prevent the cull of nearly 400 ostriches in Edgewood, B.C., on August 22, 2025.
- The cull order originated last December from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency after two birds tested positive for H5N1 avian flu, prompting ongoing health concerns.
- Farm spokeswoman Katie Pasitney urged supporters to peacefully protect the ostriches by visiting the farm and emphasized rising up against the cull, while lawyer Umar Sheikh prepared an appeal to the Supreme Court.
- A total of 69 birds died in December and January, and Pasitney called ostriches 'iconic birds' while the CFIA cited risks to animal and human health and Canadian export markets.
- The court decision and ongoing appeals maintain tension over the cull's necessity amid farm claims the flock is now healthy and public calls to protect the animals.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Supporters head for B.C. ostrich farm as it preps application to Supreme Court to stop cull order
Vancouver's Lucas Robinson travelled 575 kilometres to the small community of Edgewood, B.C., to support Universal Ostriches after the farm's birds were ordered culled after a lengthy court battle.
Supporters Head for BC Ostrich Farm as It Plans Top Court Appeal to Stop Cull
Vancouver’s Lucas Robinson was making a 575-kilometre trip east to the small community of Edgewood, B.C., with steaks, hamburgers, watermelon and his dog. The trucker said he felt a responsibility to protect nearly 400 ostriches owned by Universal Ostrich Farms that have been ordered culled after a lengthy court battle that brought international attention to the small community in the B.C. southern Interior. “I don’t know all the ins and outs. T…
Supporters converge on BC ostrich farm planning top court appeal to stop cull
Trucker Lucas Robinson said he feels a responsibility to protect nearly 400 ostriches owned by Universal Ostrich Farms that have been ordered culled after a lengthy court battle that brought international attention to the small community in the B.C. southern Interior.
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