Canada - British Columbia: Avian Influenza in Poultry 2024-25

[Pathfinder]

Update on Canadian Food Inspection Agency's ongoing custody of ostriches and conditions at the Edgewood, BC farm

October 10, 2025 – As ordered by the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) continues to have custody of the birds at the British Columbia ostrich farm.

Updated estimate on the number of birds at the farm

The CFIA has now completed a second estimate on the number of birds on the farm. The estimated number remains between 300 and 330.

As reported on October 4, 2025, one bird died on that date. This bird had preexisting health conditions that were present before the CFIA began operations at the ostrich farm. While the CFIA administered medications and all electrolytes provided by the farm owners, the bird did not survive.

There have been no other bird deaths and the CFIA has never removed any living or dead birds from the ostrich farm including since it began its operation on September 22, 2025. The CFIA is aware that the farm has reported various numbers in court documents and in public. Information about the discrepancy between the current estimate and previous claims of higher numbers by the farm has not been provided to the CFIA.

CFIA veterinary oversight and private veterinarian visit

There is ongoing CFIA veterinary oversight to monitor the condition of the flock. CFIA veterinarians have observed several birds with compromised mobility and this is consistent with reports from the owners.

On October 6, 2025, the farm's private veterinarian visited the premises and examined one older bird. Medication was administered by the private veterinarian, but a written treatment plan and prescription were not issued. The private veterinarian did note that he had no concerns about the feed and water access being provided to the flock or the birds' general welfare.

Conditions at the farm

While providing feed and water and monitoring the condition of the ostriches, CFIA inspectors have observed inadequate farm management practices, including:

• Animal bones, presumably from ostriches, scattered at various locations at the farm.
• Broken fences and gates.
• Garbage and debris throughout the quarantine area. One bird was tangled in twine when the CFIA took custody of the birds, and another bird subsequently had plastic caught on its foot. Those two incidents have been resolved.

Reminder for individuals about obstruction of CFIA inspectors

As the farm remains under CFIA control, individuals are reminded that subsection 35(1) of the Health of Animals Act makes it an offence to obstruct or hinder an analyst, inspector or officer who is performing duties or functions under this Act or the regulations. Any such actions may result in enforcement measures or prosecution.

Also, Transport Canada has published a notice pursuant to Section 5.1 Aeronautics Act that the airspace above the ostrich farm location is restricted. The restriction includes Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) (drones) and aircraft. Offences under the Aeronautics Act may result in administrative monetary penalties, fines or imprisonment.

Date modified: 2025-10-10

https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza/latest-bird-flu-situation/update-2025-10-10

[Pathfinder]

BC SPCA statement on ongoing activities at Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, B.C.

October 7, 2025

The BC SPCA’s vision is to see all animals and people thriving together, this includes companion, farmed and wild animals in British Columbia. The death of any animal always weighs heavy on the hearts of BC SPCA staff. We know how hard a situation like this can be on the animals and the community who has cared for them and wish to extend our sympathies to all involved.

Recently, a statement from the Coexisting with Wild Animals section of the BC SPCA’s website has been circulating on social media. This statement speaks to the organization’s authority to intervene in situations involving a legally permitted cull of free-living wildlife, however that same authority does not apply to disease management situations in a farm environment as this falls under federal jurisdiction and is overseen by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA.)

The BC SPCA is not a government agency, nor is it funded by any level of government for animal protection investigations. BC SPCA animal protection officers are granted authority under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act to investigate and take action against concerns related to animal cruelty. However, authority granted under the PCA Act does not allow the BC SPCA to intervene or influence decisions in disease management situations or to stop a legally permitted cull. There is no evidence currently before the BC SPCA that would justify an investigation of distress pursuant to the PCA Act related to ongoing activities or planned cull at the Universal Ostrich Farm.

A key part of the BC SPCA’s work in support of vulnerable animals across the province is to identify opportunities where the organization can influence systems change and address the root causes of animal suffering in our society. The BC SPCA advocates at all levels of government for stronger laws and regulations to support higher farmed animal welfare standards and for regulations around the keeping or farming of exotic animals. More information about how the BC SPCA advocates on behalf of animals can be found here.

The BC SPCA continues to field a significant volume of inquiries related to the Universal Ostrich Farm from concerned animal lovers across North America. Please note that BC SPCA staff, including Animal Helpline operators and animal centre teams, cannot provide more information about the situation at Universal Ostrich Farm.

...

https://spca.bc.ca/news/bc-spca-statement-on-ongoing-activities-at-universal-ostrich-farm-in-edgewood-b-c/

[Pathfinder]

Update on Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s ongoing custody of ostriches and biocontainment practices at Edgewood, British Columbia


From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Statement

October 4, 2025 – As ordered by the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) continues to have custody of the birds at the British Columbia ostrich farm.

Compliance with the stay issued by the Supreme Court of Canada stay order

The CFIA has respected and will continue to respect all orders and decisions of the courts throughout the legal process.

On September 24, the SCC ordered that the CFIA maintain custody of the birds that are subject to the Notice to Dispose and the applicant (Universal Ostrich Farms) shall not interfere with the respondent’s custody of the birds pending the decision on the stay motion and the application for leave to appeal.

The SCC did not order the CFIA to stop any other operations or preparations at the ostrich farm.

Ongoing veterinary oversight

The CFIA had been administering medication and electrolyte fluids consistent with the therapy regime provided by the owners to one compromised bird with a chronic pre-existing condition that was affecting its left leg and its mobility. Based on CFIA veterinarians’ assessment and information provided by the owners, the bird had a previous injury and a pre-existing chronic condition that was being treated by the owners for some time.

Unfortunately, the health of the bird significantly declined in the last 48 hours, and it died on October 4, 2025.

Biocontainment and the use of personal protective equipment

CFIA inspectors, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members and third-party contractors are not required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while on the ostrich farm property unless they are entering designated “hot” zones related to the quarantine.

Any individuals entering the designated zones have worn PPE or have been thoroughly disinfected upon exit. All equipment is also disinfected when leaving designated zones.

The public may see CFIA inspectors or contractors working in coveralls or regular clothes on the premises. In those situations, they are working outside of the designated zones. This is consistent with good biosecurity practices.

Reminder for individuals about obstruction of CFIA inspectors

As the farm remains under CFIA control, individuals are reminded that subsection 35(1) of the Health of Animals Act makes it an offence to obstruct or hinder an analyst, inspector or officer who is performing duties or functions under this Act or the regulations. Any such actions may result in enforcement measures or prosecution.

Also, Transport Canada has published a notice pursuant to Section 5.1 Aeronautics Act that the airspace above the ostrich farm location is restricted. The restriction includes Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) (drones) and aircraft. Offences under the Aeronautics Act may result in administrative monetary penalties, fines or imprisonment.

...

https://www.canada.ca/en/food-inspection-agency/news/2025/10/update-on-canadian-food-inspection-agencys-ongoing-custody-of-ostriches-and-biocontainment-practices-at-edgewood-british-columbia.html

[Pathfinder]

Update on Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s ongoing custody of ostriches at Edgewood, British Columbia


From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Statement


October 1, 2025 – As ordered by the Supreme Court of Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) continues to have custody of the birds at the British Columbia ostrich farm. There is ongoing veterinary oversight.

Veterinary care being provided

CFIA veterinarians have assessed one compromised animal and treatment is being provided. At the request of one of the owners, CFIA veterinarians allowed him to visit the bird with them. Based on CFIA veterinarians’ assessment and information provided by the owners, the bird has a preexisting chronic condition affecting its left leg that was being treated by the owners for some time.

The farm owners have not provided the CFIA with information about their current veterinarian of record who may have previously examined the bird and provided treatment recommendations. If requested, the CFIA will authorize a licensed private veterinarian acting on behalf of the farm to examine the bird.

The CFIA has also identified another bird with a preexisting foot injury. This bird is active and moving with the other birds and feeding well. No treatment is being administered as it is not currently required.

The other birds are continuing to be fed and watered with no signs of agitation or stress related to CFIA inspectors as care givers. As requested by the farm, the CFIA will continue to use feed from the farm’s regular supplier.

Reminder for individuals in the vicinity of the ostrich farm

As the farm remains under CFIA control, individuals are reminded that subsection 35(1) of the Health of Animals Act which makes it an offence to obstruct or hinder an analyst, inspector or officer who is performing duties or functions under this Act or the regulations. Any such actions may result in enforcement measures or prosecution.

The CFIA is aware of on-line campaigns encouraging supporters of the ostrich farm to deliberately tie up the Agency’s phone lines and resources by falsely requesting inspection services. Such disruptive actions are not only irresponsible, but they risk significantly hindering the CFIA’s ability to respond promptly to genuine calls. This interference could delay critical services that protect Canadians’ food safety, plant health and animal health.

Stamping out and eradication measures protect the national economy

Our disease response aims to protect both public and animal health, as well as minimize impacts on the $6.8 billion domestic poultry industry, and the Canadian economy. This supports Canadian families and poultry farmers whose livelihoods depend on maintaining international market access for $1.75 billion in exports.

Canada’s animal health status is an essential element of agricultural exports and the national economy.Our stamping out policy plays a critical role in animal disease control and preparedness.

For the latest information, please visit Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) on British Columbia Ostrich Farm (BC-IP223)

...

https://www.canada.ca/en/food-inspection-agency/news/2025/09/update-on-canadian-food-inspection-agencys-ongoing-custody-of-ostriches-at-edgewood-british-columbia.html

[Pathfinder]

Update on Canadian Food Inspection Agency operations and custody of ostriches at Edgewood, British Columbia


From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Statement

September 26, 2025 – Consistent with the interim stay order of the Supreme Court of Canada issued on September 24, 2025, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is maintaining its presence in Edgewood, British Columbia and has custody of the ostriches on the farm.

Current status of the Agency’s presence on the farm

The CFIA will continue to provide appropriate feed and water to the ostriches under CFIA veterinary oversight. The CFIA will be using feed provided by the ostrich farm’s regular supplier once it is delivered.

The CFIA has completed an initial count of the ostriches and determined that there are between 300 and 330 on the premises. There will be ongoing efforts to determine a more precise number. The CFIA also identified an ostrich with compromised health on the premises. The CFIA is consulting the owners about any pre-existing treatment plans that they have with their private veterinarian.

As the farm remains under CFIA control, individuals at the farm should continue to be aware of subsection 35(1) of the Health of Animals Act which makes it an offence to obstruct or hinder an analyst, inspector or officer who is performing duties or functions under this Act or the regulations.

There are potential animal and human health risks associated with the ongoing delay in implementing disease-response measures at Universal Ostrich Farms (UOF) including destruction of the infected and exposed ostriches and decontamination of the infected and exposed environment.

Evolving science underscores urgency of action

Following the confirmation of the presence of H5N1 in the herd of ostriches from Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, the National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease (NCFAD) laboratory in Winnipeg isolated the virus and complete whole genome sequencing.

Additional laboratory analysis of the original samples has determined that current HPAI infection in these ostriches is a novel reassortment not seen elsewhere in Canada. This assortment includes the D1.3 genotype, which has been associated with a human infection in a poultry worker in Ohio.

Laboratory analysis also found this novel reassortment event has enhanced the pathogenicity of this particular H5N1 genotype. Even minimal quantities of the virus could be lethal, with a rapid time to death of 4-5 days in mice exposed to even low doses. By comparison, the B3.13 genotype (originating from a USA dairy cow) resulted in mortality within 3-6 days, but only at substantially higher doses.

Genomic epidemiology analyses traced the spread of genotype D1.3. and demonstrated that the samples collected at the UOF are direct genetic ancestors of those collected in Ohio and Missouri in late 2024. The analysis therefore showed strong statistical support for inferred migration of genotype D1.3 viruses from the UOF to both Ohio and Missouri.

The CFIA’s stamping out policy aims to protect human health, animal health, and international trade access

Canada’s animal health status is an essential element of agricultural exports and the national economy.Our stamping out policy for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) plays a critical role in animal disease control and preparedness.Under the stamping out policy, all of the birds on infected and exposed premises are depopulated. There is no post detection testing of exposed birds to exclude individual birds to exclude them from depopulation.

The application of the stamping out policy for this farm has been upheld by the Federal Court of Canada and the Federal Court of Appeal and is supported by scientific evidence.

Our disease response aims to protect both public and animal health, as well as minimize impacts on the $6.8 billion domestic poultry industry, and the Canadian economy. This supports Canadian families and poultry farmers whose livelihoods depend on maintaining international market access for $1.75 billion in exports.

...

https://www.canada.ca/en/food-inspection-agency/news/2025/09/update-on-canadian-food-inspection-agency-operations-and-custody-of-ostriches-at-edgewood-bc.html

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Canadian Food Inspection Agency to maintain an ongoing presence in Edgewood, British Columbia during Supreme Court proceedings


From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Statement

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will comply with the interim order issued by the Supreme Court of Canada today.

The CFIA will be filing its response to the request for leave to appeal as soon as possible.

The CFIA will maintain custody of the birds as ordered by the Supreme Court of Canada. The CFIA will provide appropriate feed and water with veterinary oversight while the birds are in the Agency’s custody.

The search warrants which authorized the CFIA to take control of specific properties at the ostrich farm remain in effect. There is no access to the properties under CFIA control without permission from the CFIA.

Individuals approaching the ostrich farm during the CFIA’s ongoing presence as authorized by the Supreme Court of Canada should pay particular attention to Sections 35(1) and 65(1) of the Health of Animals Act which state:

35 (1) No person shall obstruct or hinder or make any false or misleading statement either orally or in writing to an analyst, inspector or officer who is performing duties or functions under this Act or the regulations.

65 (1) Every person who contravenes any provision of this Act, other than section 15, or the regulations or who refuses or neglects to perform any duty imposed by or under the Act or the regulations is guilty of

a) an offence punishable on summary conviction and liable to a fine not exceeding fifty thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both; or

b) an indictable offence and liable to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or to both.

The CFIA is committed to the safety and security of its employees and contractors and continues to work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for onsite security and follow up on ongoing threats of violence and death by apparent supporters of the ostrich farm.

Our disease response aims to protect both public and animal health, as well as minimize impacts on the $6.8 billion domestic poultry industry, and the Canadian economy. This supports Canadian families and poultry farmers whose livelihoods depend on maintaining international market access for $1.75 billion in exports.

Canada’s animal health status is an essential element of agricultural exports and the national economy.Our stamping out policy plays a critical role in animal disease control and preparedness.

Contacts

Media Relations
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
613-773-6600
cfia.media.acia@canada.ca

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) touches the lives of all Canadians in so many positive ways. Each day, hard-working CFIA employees–including inspectors, veterinarians and scientists–inspect food for safety risks, protect plants from pests and invasive species, and respond to animal diseases that could threaten Canada's national herd and human health. Guided by science-based decision-making and modern regulations, the Agency works tirelessly to ensure access to safe and healthy food in Canada, and support access to international markets for our high-quality agricultural products. To learn more, visit inspection.canada.ca.

Search for related information by keyword: Animal diseases | Animal health | Canadian Food Inspection Agency | British Columbia | Canada | Avian influenza (H5N1) | general public | government | statements | Hon. Heath MacDonald | Hon. Marjorie Michel

Page details

Date modified: 2025-09-24

https://www.canada.ca/en/food-inspection-agency/news/2025/09/canadian-food-inspection-agency-to-maintain-an-ongoing-presence-in-edgewood-british-columbia-during-supreme-court-proceedings.html

[Pathfinder]

Supreme Court of Canada grants stay in the case B.C. ostrich cull

CFIA had been preparing to destroy the flock at Universal Ostrich Farm in southeastern B.C.

CBC News · Posted: Sep 24, 2025 11:49 AM CDT | Last Updated: 3 minutes ago


The Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) has issued a stay in the case of a B.C. Ostrich farm fighting to stop a cull of its 400-bird flock over an avian flu outbreak.
...
The order, issued Wednesday, pauses the agency's Dec. 31, 2024 Notice to Dispose, while the court mulls the farm's application for leave to appeal a lower court decision that allowed the cull to proceed.

The SCC order says the application for leave to appeal will be dealt with on an expedited basis.

The court directed that the CFIA maintain custody of the birds and said the farm must not interfere with federal oversight pending a decision on the application. The agency must file any response by Oct. 3, with the farm allowed to reply within two days of that filing.
...

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/stay-of-execution-b-c-ostriches-1.7642092

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CFIA prepares for cull on B.C. ostrich farm after outbreak of avian influenza

By The Canadian Press
Published: September 24, 2025 at 5:25AM EDT
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A wall of hay bales about three metres tall has been constructed at the farm near the tiny community of Edgewood in southeastern B.C., and several people wearing white protective suits could be seen from the nearby highway on Tuesday.

The installation of the hay bales followed the arrests of Karen Espersen, who is a co-owner of the farm, as well as her daughter, Katie Pasitney, after they refused an opportunity to voluntarily leave the ostriches’ pen earlier Tuesday.

The pair returned home later in the day, although Pasitney says they are not allowed to go back inside the ostrich pen, which has been under CFIA control since Monday.
...

https://www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/article/cfia-prepares-for-cull-on-bc-ostrich-farm-after-outbreak-of-avian-influenza/

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BC SPCA statement on ongoing activities at Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, B.C.

September 23, 2025

Since 2004, British Columbia has seen ongoing concerns related to avian influenza outbreaks, particularly on poultry farms. Avian influenza, also known as “bird flu,” is a viral infection that spreads easily and quickly among both farmed and wild birds but can also be spread to people and other animals. As there is currently no treatment for infected birds, farmed animals are euthanized when flocks are confirmed to be infected to reduce animal suffering and prevent the risk of further disease transmission.

In disease control cases, such as the one involving the Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, the authority and jurisdiction to make decisions falls under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The BC SPCA does not have any authority to intervene or influence the decision-making process where avian influenza is a factor, nor does it have the authority to prevent a legally permitted cull from happening.

In situations where an animal is suffering from a mental or physical illness that cannot be treated, or an illness that poses a serious public health or public safety concern, euthanasia may be an appropriate action. In these situations, the BC SPCA believes the methods used to euthanize any animal must be humane and ensure that fear, pain and anxiety are kept to minimal levels prior to and during killing. Details of the BC SPCA’s position statement on humane killing can be found here.

The BC SPCA recognizes the negative impact of euthanasia for disease control purposes on the animals, farmers, and the community. The organization actively advocates for changes to wildlife and farmed animal management efforts that protect animal health and welfare to reduce the spread of avian influenza to avoid the need for euthanasia in the future.

Anyone with concerns related to the activities at the Universal Ostrich Farm are encouraged to reach out to CFIA directly.

https://spca.bc.ca/news/bc-spca-statement-on-ongoing-activities-at-universal-ostrich-farm-in-edgewood-b-c/

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CFIA says B.C. ostrich farmers must leave or face arrest

By The Canadian Press
Published: September 23, 2025 at 5:21AM EDT

Nearly 400 ostriches will meet their fate as the CFIA prepares to carry out a cull. Andrew Johnson has the latest.
(Video)

The owners of an ostrich farm, whose flock is subject to a cull order, must leave today or face removal by police called in by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
...

https://www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/article/cfia-says-bc-ostrich-farmers-must-leave-by-tuesday-or-face-arrest/

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RCMP escort CFIA to execute search warrant on B.C. ostrich farm

Canadian Press
about 2 hours ago

EDGEWOOD, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA — Mounties say they have been requested to attend an ostrich farm in British Columbia's Interior where about 400 birds have been ordered culled after avian flu swept through the flock last year.

An RCMP statement says police support is being given to the lead agency, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which has been "granted lawful authority to execute a search warrant."

A spokeswoman for Universal Ostrich Farms, Katie Pasitney, says in a video posted on Facebook that a convoy of police vehicles and waste disposal trucks rolled up Monday outside the property in Edgewood, B.C.
...

https://www.rmoutlook.com/national-news/rcmp-escort-cfia-to-execute-search-warrant-on-bc-ostrich-farm-11245044

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Video posted by Katie Pasitney on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/100...ndinhandplease

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British Columbia

New analysis indicates higher lethality of avian flu at B.C. ostrich farm: CFIA vet

Universal Ostrich has been fighting a cull order imposed by federal authorities in court

Brenna Owen · The Canadian Press · Posted: Sep 10, 2025 6:11 PM CDT | Last Updated: September 10
...
The affidavit by Cathy Furness with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) says further investigation of samples taken from the birds revealed the "novel reassortment" of the virus has "enhanced the pathogenicity" of the strain.

It says the strain was "among the most virulent" tested at Canada's National Microbiology Laboratory and even low doses killed mice within a few days.
...
Furness says the chances they are infected or will become infected "is unknown by CFIA, due to gaps in the available science regarding how long immunity to (avian influenza) viruses may last in an individual ostrich," as well as a lack of information about how many ostriches were infected during the original outbreak.
...
Avian influenza viruses can survive for months or even years in fresh water at low temperatures and have been documented surviving in manure and on feathers in low temperatures for about four to six months, the affidavit says.

"Therefore, a source of infection or reinfection with (avian influenza) can remain in the environment long after individual infected birds have recovered," it says.
...

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bc-ostrich-farm-avian-flu-case-1.7630656

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Federal Court of Appeal upholds CFIA order to dispose of birds located at an infected premises in Edgewood, British Columbia

Aug. 21, 2025

Following an expedited appeal, the Federal Court of Appeal has unanimously upheld the May 13, 2025, decision of the Federal Court of Canada to dismiss both applications from Universal Ostrich Farms for judicial review.

The Federal Court of Canada previously determined that the Agency's decisions were reasonable based on the evidentiary record and were made in a procedurally fair manner. It was determined that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) acted reasonably within the authorities provided under the Health of Animals Act.

CFIA's legislative mandate


The Health of Animals Act is the primary federal legislative authority for the prevention, control and eradication animal diseases and is administered by the CFIA. Orders issued under section 48 of the Health of Animals Act authorize the CFIA to respond effectively to outbreaks of animal diseases in Canada and to help protect animal and human health in Canada.

Our disease response aims to protect both public and animal health, as well as minimize impacts on the $6.8 billion domestic poultry industry, and the Canadian economy. This supports Canadian families and poultry farmers whose livelihoods depend on maintaining international market access for $1.75 billion in exports.

Next steps


The CFIA takes the responsibility to protect the health of animals and Canadians extremely seriously as we conduct these necessary disease control measures to protect public health and minimize the economic impact on Canada's poultry industry.

The CFIA does not generally release details about the operations of individual farms to help protect the privacy of producers. Accordingly, specific operational plans and dates will not be shared with the public in advance.

Date modified: 2025-08-21

https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza/latest-bird-flu-situation/investigations-and-orders/british-columbia-ostrich-farm/infected-premises-edgewood-british-columbia

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Opinion

The Scientific and Ethical Case for Sparing the Ostriches

Avian flu is serious, but opposition to a cull isn’t just emotional.

Jan Hajek Today The Tyee
Jan Hajek is an infectious diseases doctor based at Vancouver General Hospital and a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of British Columbia.
...
This week the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, or CFIA, released an update on the ostrich farm situation.

To be clear, the policy in Canada, as in many other countries, is that commercial poultry infected with H5N1 should be slaughtered and the farm financially compensated to restock with new birds. The B.C. ostriches (which had previously been vaccinated against COVID so that antibodies could be extracted from their eggs for commercial purposes) are not unique in surviving H5N1. Thousands of ostriches in South Africa with H5N1 have survived — and were also quarantined and culled.

But there are other important considerations.

First of all, there are the economic and practical realities. Consider cows. There are thousands of cows in the United States with H5N1. People have even gotten sick with H5N1 from these cows, likely as milk gets splashed into their eyes. And there has been H5N1 transmission from the cows back to birds. Arguably, the infected cows pose a larger public health risk than the ostriches in B.C. Where is the outcry to slaughter those cows?
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Chickens are obviously different from cows. When infected with H5N1, over 90 per cent of the birds will die over the next few days. Because chickens, especially broilers, are usually slaughtered at a very young age anyway, it makes economic sense to slaughter the whole flock right away as soon as an outbreak has been detected. Then disinfect the building, and quickly start again.

Dairy cows, like those ostriches on the B.C. farm, have much better chances of survival than chickens. They are also slaughtered at a much later age than chickens. The economics weigh heavily, and, despite public health risks, the cows are not culled.
...

https://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2025/06/05/Scientific-Ethical-Case-Sparing-Ostriches/

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Translation Google

Ostrich farm threatened with cull calls for independent testing

The Canadian Press
Posted at 8:34 AM

Operators of a British Columbia ostrich flock under a cull order following a bird flu outbreak are calling for independent testing of the birds to prevent their "unnecessary destruction."

Katie Pasitney , whose mother co-owns Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia, released a statement Monday saying the nearly 400 ostriches are healthy and have shown no signs of illness for more than four months.

The statement said the herd poses no threat and should be tested for persistent avian flu infections, adding that ostriches have acquired herd immunity to the virus and are a valuable scientific resource.

This statement was made following a lengthy update from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on Friday, announcing that it had fined the farm $20,000 for non-cooperation with measures to combat avian flu.

The agency said it issued two violation notices to the farm for failing to report diseases and deaths within the herd last year and failing to comply with quarantine orders.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency CFIA says the type of avian influenza infection present at the scene is a mutation not seen in Canada and includes a genotype associated with a human infection in a poultry worker in Ohio .

The declaration of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency CFIA represents a rejection of proposals by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, who wrote to the president of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency CFIA last week to request that the birds be kept for joint research.

https://ici.radio-canada.ca/rci/fr/nouvelle/2169442/autruches-tests-independants-edgewood