Nearly 400 ostriches at a B.C. farm have been killed, following an almost year-long battle to manage concerns stemming from the highly contagious avian flu.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed professional marksmen were brought in Thursday just after 3:30 p.m. to shoot and kill the ostriches, which are known for being the fastest birds on land.

“After consulting with experts experienced in managing ostrich disease outbreaks, the CFIA concluded that the most appropriate and humane option was to use professional marksmen in a controlled on-farm setting,” the agency said in a statement Friday.

“All depopulation activities were completed under CFIA veterinary supervision.”

The main road leading to the farm was closed while the killing was underway. Once the shooting was complet

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