The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has concluded its operations at a British Columbia ostrich farm where the flock was culled due to an avian flu outbreak. The agency confirmed that 314 ostrich carcasses, eggs, and other materials were disposed of at a B.C. landfill through deep burial. The Universal Ostrich Farms site near Edgewood remains under quarantine, with access to biocontainment areas requiring permission.
According to the CFIA, any premises affected by highly pathogenic avian flu must undergo a standardized process of cleaning and disinfection approved by the agency before quarantine restrictions can be lifted. The farm has been provided with necessary documentation outlining the requirements, and a “fallow period” with CFIA oversight may follow the cleaning process.
The farm’s representatives, who contested the cull for more than 10 months until the Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear an appeal, have not responded to requests for comment. Katie Pasitney, whose mother co-owns the farm, criticized the use of professional marksmen, describing the shooting of the ostriches as “inhumane” and the prolonged gunfire as “overwhelming.”
The CFIA defended the use of marksmen as the most appropriate and humane method after consulting with experts experienced in managing ostrich disease outbreaks. The agency stated that personal protective equipment is not mandatory outside designated quarantine zones. During the culling operation, workers in white protective suits were visible inside the ostrich enclosure.
Any requests for compensation due to the loss of the flock will be evaluated in accordance with the Health of Animals Act and relevant regulations. The CFIA emphasized that prompt reporting of animal diseases and cooperation in eradication efforts are encouraged by the regulations.