CFIA says ostrich cull will go ahead after high court decides it won’t hear appeal

CFIA Confirms Ostrich Cull Will Proceed After Supreme Court Refusal

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced it will carry out the "complete depopulation" of hundreds of ostriches at a British Columbia farm, following the Supreme Court of Canada's decision not to hear the owners' final appeal.

Background of the Outbreak and Legal Dispute

The cull order was issued on December 31 after avian flu was detected at Universal Ostrich Farms, located in Edgewood, B.C. This led to a legal battle lasting 10 months between the farm’s owners and the CFIA.

Positions of Both Parties

The farm owners argue that the surviving ostriches show no signs of illness and should be spared.
The CFIA maintains that even healthy-appearing ostriches can still spread the disease, justifying the cull.

Reaction and Next Steps

Supporters gathered at the farm in a prayer circle as co-owner Dave Bilinski shared the Supreme Court ruling. He expressed hope for a

“miracle” to save the flock.

With the high court declining to hear the appeal, there are no remaining legal barriers to the CFIA proceeding with the cull.

Agency Statement

The CFIA stated it has complied with all court orders and expects the farm's owners and their supporters to do the same.

Additional Notes

This report was initially published by The Canadian Press in November.

Summary: The CFIA will begin culling ostriches at a BC farm after the Supreme Court refused to hear the owners' appeal amid an avian flu outbreak, despite owners' claims that ostriches appear healthy.

Toronto Star — 2025-11-06