B.C. ostriches won’t ‘necessarily’ be killed, says Canada’s agriculture minister

Canada’s Minister of Agriculture is facing a tough decision regarding a group of ostriches on a farm in British Columbia. Despite an order from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to cull the ostriches due to concerns about avian flu, Minister Heath MacDonald is exploring alternative options.

During a press conference in Ottawa, Minister MacDonald stated that they are considering all facts and will determine the best course of action for everyone involved. When asked directly if the ostriches would be killed, he responded, “Not necessarily,” indicating that there may be hope for the birds.

The fate of the ostriches at Universal Ostrich farm in Edgewood, B.C., has garnered international attention since the CFIA’s order to cull the entire herd of approximately 400 ostriches. This decision was made after two ostriches tested positive for avian flu, prompting concerns about the disease spreading and mutating.

Universal Ostrich farm has been advocating for the survival of the ostriches, highlighting that no new cases of avian flu have been reported since January. They have shifted their focus from selling the birds for food to using them for scientific research.

However, the CFIA argues that the open pens at the farm leave the ostriches vulnerable to wild birds and animals, posing a risk of reintroducing the disease into the population. They stress the importance of following international guidelines to protect Canada’s agricultural industry and public health.

Minister MacDonald acknowledges the challenges faced by the farmers but emphasizes the need to consider the broader implications of combating avian flu. He points out the economic impact and the responsibility to safeguard other industries and sectors.

Support for the ostriches has come from unexpected sources, including U.S. billionaire John Catsimatidis and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Catsimatidis raised awareness about the ostriches on his radio show, prompting Kennedy to intervene and request that Canada reconsider culling the herd.

Former TV host Dr. Mehmet Oz has also offered to take in the ostriches at his ranch. While Minister MacDonald has not yet engaged with his U.S. counterparts on the issue, he emphasizes the importance of having a proper conversation rather than relying on social media for decision-making.

As the debate over the fate of the ostriches continues, Universal Ostrich farm has filed for an appeal to the court ruling allowing the cull. With dedicated supporters rallying behind the cause, the future of the ostriches remains uncertain. Minister MacDonald faces a challenging decision that will balance public health concerns with the welfare of the ostriches and the agricultural industry.