Update on Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s ongoing custody of ostriches and biocontainment practices at Edgewood, British Columbia
October 4, 2025 – As ordered by the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) continues to have custody of the birds at the British Columbia ostrich farm.
Compliance with the stay issued by the Supreme Court of Canada stay order
The CFIA has respected and will continue to respect all orders and decisions of the courts throughout the legal process.
On September 24, the SCC ordered that the CFIA maintain custody of the birds that are subject to the Notice to Dispose and the applicant (Universal Ostrich Farms) shall not interfere with the respondent’s custody of the birds pending the decision on the stay motion and the application for leave to appeal.
The SCC did not order the CFIA to stop any other operations or preparations at the ostrich farm.
Ongoing veterinary oversight
The CFIA had been administering medication and electrolyte fluids consistent with the therapy regime provided by the owners to one compromised bird with a chronic pre-existing condition that was affecting its left leg and its mobility. Based on CFIA veterinarians’ assessment and information provided by the owners, the bird had a previous injury and a pre-existing chronic condition that was being treated by the owners for some time.
Unfortunately, the health of the bird significantly declined in the last 48 hours, and it died on October 4, 2025.
Biocontainment and the use of personal protective equipment
CFIA inspectors, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members and third-party contractors are not required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while on the ostrich farm property unless they are entering designated “hot” zones related to the quarantine.
Any individuals entering the designated zones have worn PPE or have been thoroughly disinfected upon exit. All equipment is also disinfected when leaving designated zones.
The public may see CFIA inspectors or contractors working in coveralls or regular clothes on the premises. In those situations, they are working outside of the designated zones. This is consistent with good biosecurity practices.
Reminder for individuals about obstruction of CFIA inspectors
As the farm remains under CFIA control, 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. Any such actions may result in enforcement measures or prosecution.
Also, 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.