Ostrich Farm Makes Bold Move Against Cull Order

Edgewood's Universal Ostrich Farms has launched a passionate appeal to the federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, demanding an end to a controversial cull order that could decimate its flock of nearly 400 healthy ostriches.

A Different Strategy to Combat Avian Flu

Instead of culling, Universal Ostrich Farms is advocating for a breakthrough 'scientifically validated, risk-managed protocol.' This innovative approach aims to rehabilitate what is claimed to be Canada’s only ostrich flock that has successfully battled avian influenza.

Court Battles Over the Fate of the Flock

The cull order, issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), comes on the heels of an avian flu outbreak that ignited a legal firestorm. Since the December 2024 order, the farm has tirelessly fought back through court proceedings, with the Federal Court of Appeal serving as the latest battleground.

Reviving a Living Laboratory

"After 239 consecutive days of health under the CFIA's watchful eye, we believe we have a unique opportunity to turn this situation around," stated Katie Pasitney, spokesperson for Universal Ostrich Farms. The farm asserts that the ostriches exhibit extraordinary immunity, boasting an impressive survival rate of 85%, a stark contrast to other vulnerable species.

An Appeal to Save Jobs and Genetic Progress