British Columbia Ostrich Culling Proceeds a Year After H5N1 Outbreak
A judicial decision marking the end of all legal recourse has paved the way for the full-scale depopulation of an ostrich flock at Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia, following a confirmed outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in December 2024. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) originally issued a “dispose of birds” order on 31 December 2024, after laboratory confirmation of H5N1 in two deceased birds on the premises. During the course of the outbreak, approximately sixty-nine ostriches, around fifteen percent of the flock, died on the site, prompting quarantine measures and subsequent enforcement action.
As part of its disease control policy, the CFIA proceeded with culling the remaining ostriches at the farm. Following consultation with experts experienced in managing ostrich disease outbreaks, the agency determined that the most appropriate and humane method was to employ professional marksmen in a controlled on-farm setting.
-They Shoot Ostriches, Don't They?
