The cull follows an outbreak that led to an official culling order; multiple court rulings had upheld the agency’s action prior to the Supreme Court decision.

The ruling sparked protests at home and abroad under the banner 'Sauvez nos autruches,' drawing attention from public figures, including U.S. figures who urged alternative approaches or international involvement.

Farm co-owners and supporters express distress and warn of the loss of healthy animals, highlighting decades of work and family sacrifice tied to the birds.

U.S. figures and media coverage amplified calls to spare the birds, while Canadian authorities warned against obstructing inspectors and noted drone restrictions over the farm.

The case has kept public interest high, with context on the CFIA’s role and public-health considerations surrounding avian influenza.

Supporters gathered at the farm for prayer circles as co-owner Dave Bilinski announced the Supreme Court ruling, marking an emotional moment for those opposed to the cull.

Owners and a spokesperson criticized the cull and vowed to continue the fight, with earlier arrests in September related to trespassing or staying inside the pen.

Protesters argue the flock may have developed collective immunity and contend no new deaths have occurred since the outbreak, suggesting the cull could be disproportionate.

Experts cited in coverage questioned stamping out for ostriches, noting differences from typical poultry and limited exemptions.

Law enforcement, including the RCMP, maintained a presence at the farm amid arrests related to the situation and CFIA perimeter controls.

A Canadian ostrich farm in Edgewood, Universal Ostrich Farms in British Columbia, faces a government-ordered depopulation of about 400 birds after an H5N1 avian flu outbreak detected in December 2024, as the Supreme Court declines to hear the farm’s appeal, clearing the way for the cull.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will proceed with depopulation and disposal under the Health of Animals Act, citing public health and industry protections and noting that it followed all court orders throughout the process.