November 7, 2025 – As part of its disease response policy, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has culled the ostrich population on a farm in Edgewood, British Columbia.
The premises is still quarantined under the Health of Animals Act. Permission from the CFIA is required to enter property covered by existing search warrants, which includes areas of the farm subject to biocontainment requirements.
After consulting with experts experienced in managing ostrich disease outbreaks, the CFIA concluded that the most appropriate and humane option was to use professional marksmen in a controlled on-farm setting. All depopulation activities were completed under CFIA veterinary supervision.
This method is consistent with Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and American Veterinary Medical Association recommendations and may be used as required, particularly when other methods are impractical.
Safety and animal welfare
This operation respected all relevant provincial and federal animal welfare standards and required regulations and was designed to provide for the safety of CFIA staff, contractors and the public in the vicinity of the infected premises. The CFIA has now started the disposal stage of the disease response.
Reminder for individuals in the vicinity of the ostrich farm
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 as the CFIA completes its operation. Any such actions may result in enforcement measures or prosecution.
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.