BC farmers ask the Supreme Court to postpone Cull of 400 ostriches, say that birds have no flu

BC farmers with 400 ostriches affected by bird flu are seeking intervention from the highest court in Canada to halt the cull of their birds. The farmers argue that the ostriches are healthy and have not posed any threats for several months.

Katie Pasitney, whose family owns Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewater, BC, is determined to take their case to the Supreme Court of Canada after the Federal Court of Appeal upheld the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s decision to cull the birds. The Pasitney family believes that the ostriches should be allowed to live and potentially provide valuable insights into fighting the disease.

Despite facing challenges in the legal system, the farmers remain hopeful and are planning to rally supporters to protest against the culling of the birds. The CFIA ordered the destruction of the ostriches after a small number tested positive for bird flu, but the farm argues that the remaining birds are healthy and do not carry the virus.

While concerns about the potential spread of bird flu remain, the farmers are determined to fight for the survival of their ostriches. The CFIA has emphasized the risks to animal and human health posed by bird flu and has defended its decision to cull the birds.

In a statement, the agency stated that it would not disclose its plans for the cull publicly. The Federal Court of Appeal acknowledged the emotional and financial impact of its decision on the farmers but stated that it was not within its jurisdiction to change government policy.

Experts warn that the virus could mutate and become more infectious to humans if left unchecked. Despite calls for further testing, the CFIA has not provided clarity on whether the remaining ostriches have been tested for bird flu.

The fate of the ostriches hangs in the balance as the legal battle continues. The farmers remain hopeful that they will be able to save their birds and prevent further losses.