Mounties investigating after 2nd ostrich dies on B.C. farm facing cull order

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has launched an investigation after a second ostrich was found dead under suspicious circumstances at a farm in British Columbia where approximately 400 of the birds have been ordered to be killed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

The CFIA has stated that the cull of the ostriches will be conducted in a humane manner, with veterinary oversight. In the meantime, the RCMP is closely monitoring the farm to ensure the overall safety and security of the premises.

This latest investigation marks the second instance of an ostrich death at the farm this year, with the RCMP already looking into a case where one of the birds was shot on March 21. The recent death was confirmed by the Canadian Press, but details surrounding the incident have not been disclosed by the authorities.

Katie Pasitney, a spokesperson for the farm whose mother is a co-owner of Universal Ostrich, revealed that the male ostrich that died had “clear entry and exit wounds.” She also mentioned concerns about drones in the area but emphasized the importance of sticking to facts and avoiding speculation.

In response to the ongoing investigations, Pasitney assured that the farm is cooperating with the RCMP and understands that the process will take time. She requested prayers and support for the farm during this challenging time.

Supporters of Universal Ostrich have gathered at the farm in Edgewood, B.C., to protest the federal order to cull nearly 400 birds. The cull was initially ordered by the CFIA in December 2024 after avian flu was detected in the flock. Despite a court ruling permitting the cull to proceed, the supporters argue that the surviving ostriches are healthy and should be spared.

The CFIA maintains that the cull is necessary to prevent the spread of avian flu and comply with international disease control obligations. The agency has defended its decision based on the presence of the disease in the flock and the risk of transmission to other birds.

The farm and its supporters have called for follow-up testing to be conducted on the ostriches before any further action is taken. The local regional district has also expressed concerns about the disposal of the killed birds and has requested transparency in the testing process.

While the CFIA has not disclosed specific details about the culling operation, it has reiterated the importance of preventing the spread of avian flu and ensuring the safety of poultry operations. The agency has stated that operational plans for the cull will not be shared with the public in advance.

As the investigations continue and tensions rise at Universal Ostrich farm, the RCMP and CFIA are working to address the concerns and ensure that the situation is handled appropriately. The fate of the remaining ostriches remains uncertain as the community awaits further developments in this complex and contentious case.