EDGEWOOD, British Columbia – The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed that all ostriches at a farm in British Columbia have been euthanized as part of a cull order due to an avian flu outbreak. The agency stated that a "professional marksman" was employed to carry out the cull, which was deemed the "most appropriate and humane option" for the situation.

On Thursday, the holding pen that once housed the ostriches was left empty, with no birds visible on the property. The area is now covered with long blue tarpaulins and black sheeting, concealing the remains of the birds. The cull began around 6 p.m. and continued for several hours.

This action followed a ruling from the Supreme Court of Canada, which declined to hear the farmers' final appeal against the cull earlier that day. The CFIA estimated the flock size to be between 300 and 330 birds. The agency reported that the culling process was conducted under veterinary supervision to ensure compliance with animal welfare standards.

The decision to cull the ostriches was made in response to the avian flu outbreak, which poses significant risks to both animal and public health. The CFIA continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent further spread of the disease.