🔗 Share this article Authorities Proceeds with ‘Complete Depopulation’ Strategy to Cull 400 Ostriches Canada’s food safety authority has announced it aims to start a total removal of numerous ostriches at a ranch following the country’s top court refused to stop the disputed slaughter. Judicial Impediments Cleared by Supreme Court Decision Thursday’s ruling removed any judicial obstacle to commencing the killings. Universal Ostrich Farms, situated near the community of Edgewood, British Columbia, was first ordered in the month of May to eradicate nearly 400 birds, amid fears of an spread of bird flu. Earlier this week, authorities took over of the business. Nearly seventy birds have previously perished after the emergence of a flu-like illness. On Wednesday, the nation’s top court issued an interim stay on the cull order as it weighed whether to hear the case. Governmental and Public Reactions The growing row over the birds – and a lingering post-pandemic skepticism – have inspired demonstrators to gather at the property, with many expressing their anger on online platforms. The case has also penetrated the nation’s political sphere. In early October, the opposition leader, Pierre Poilievre, was questioned repeatedly by journalists whether he supported protesters. The Conservative figure has steered clear of making specific comments on the matter, despite many within his party protesting against the slaughter. He told the press the issue had been poorly handled from the start but didn’t say the word the bird’s name. International Interest and Offers Several prominent individuals from the United States have lobbied authorities in Canada. The US health secretary offered to move the birds to his property in the Sunshine State. An US billionaire has also pleaded with the Canadian government to rescind its eradication directive. Scientific and Ethical Arguments The Canadian federal government stated the relevant agency was adhering to a eradication policy in order to contain the spread of bird flu, a step in line with wider advice from international health bodies. However, animal rights organizations have urged the agency to perform additional tests on the animals to verify they are carrying the virus. The farm owners claimed that because the most recent fatality occurred on 15 January 2025, with the remaining birds appearing healthy or healed, the flock has acquired at least partial herd immunity against the virus. They have also cast doubt on the extent and reliability of testing on the ostriches. Ranch Representative Reaction On Thursday, the farm’s spokesperson, informed the media that the agency was killing healthy birds. “These are prehistoric animals that have endured millions of years, but they will not endure the government agency,” she said. A co-owner said he was concerned that there is no justice left”. Court and Agency Findings A national court, however, determined that allowing the ostriches to remain alive could lead to the transmission of bird flu to different species, the livestock sector – or to humans. The agency has not announced at what time it plans to begin culling the ostriches. Eradication Procedures An older guideline document, acquired under freedom of information laws, says the birds can be euthanized by various methods, the recommended being injection, which requires three people: one person to restrain the bird by sitting on its back, another to secure the head, and a third to administer the injection. Staff can also use gas or break the birds’ necks. Employees of the agency can only shoot the birds “as a last resort”, if they have a “skilled marksman” on site. Latest Updates As per media sources, soon after the court ruling, agency workers started installing more equipment and flood lighting around a makeshift pen near the back of the bird enclosure.