Owners of Edgewood Ostrich Farm Sue Federal Government, RCMP Over Cull

EDGEWOOD, B.C. - Universal Ostrich Farms Inc. and Landco Ventures have filed a civil claim in B.C. Supreme Court against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Attorney General of Canada and the RCMP.

The claim, filed October 30, 2026, relates to the CFIA's November 2025 cull of the farm's ostriches, which followed the agency's report that avian influenza had been detected at the property on December 31, 2024.

The plaintiffs allege unlawful search and occupation of the Edgewood property, inadequate compensation, animal cruelty, and the destruction of a commercial enterprise.

According to the claim, 351 birds were present when CFIA officials began operations at the property. The plaintiffs say compensation was offered for 314 birds at $3,000 each, totalling $942,000, while 37 birds remain unaccounted for.

The claim also alleges that approximately 1,200 ostrich eggs were seized without compensation or being returned. The farm says the eggs were intended for a dietary-supplement product projected to generate more than $200 million in revenue.

The CFIA previously reported that the eggs, ostrich carcasses and other material were disposed of through deep burial at an approved landfill in British Columbia.

None of the allegations in the new civil claim have been proven in court. The defendants have not yet filed a response. In a statement to media, the CFIA said it is aware of the claim and will respond in due course.

The November 2025 cull followed unsuccessful legal challenges by the farm, including applications for judicial review that were dismissed by the Federal Court and Federal Court of Appeal. The Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear a further appeal on November 6, 2025.

The CFIA reported that disposal operations were completed on November 8, 2025, with a final count of 314 birds.

Owners of Edgewood Ostrich Farm Sue Federal Government, RCMP Over Cull