The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has reported the death of an ostrich from a British Columbia flock that recently received a reprieve from a cull order by the Supreme Court of Canada. The ostrich, located at Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, B.C., had a pre-existing condition affecting its left leg and mobility, which worsened over two days before passing away on Saturday.
A spokesperson for the farm, Katie Pasitney, confirmed the ostrich’s death on Facebook and criticized the CFIA for alleged animal cruelty, claiming mistreatment of electrolytes. The CFIA responded by stating they had been providing medication and electrolyte fluids as directed by the farm owners, without addressing the cruelty accusations immediately.
The cull order was initially issued due to an avian flu outbreak at the farm, although the owners contested the decision, asserting that the surviving birds are healthy and have scientific value. The Supreme Court’s last-minute intervention halted the cull temporarily, with the CFIA agreeing to comply with the stay and submit a response to the High Court while maintaining control of the ostrich enclosure at the farm in southeastern B.C.
