Universal Ostrich Farms Sues Canada Over Avian Flu Cull

Universal Ostrich Farms Inc. and Landco Ventures Inc. filed a multi-million dollar civil claim in the British Columbia Supreme Court on October 30, 2026, against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and the Attorney General of Canada. The lawsuit follows a November 2025 forced cull of 351 ostriches at the farm's Edgewood property after highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in December 2024.

The plaintiffs allege the CFIA and RCMP conducted an unlawful and invasive 52-day occupation of the property, committed acts of animal cruelty, and failed to account for 37 missing birds. The farm also seeks compensation for 1,200 seized ostrich eggs, claiming the loss destroyed a commercial enterprise for a dietary supplement pill projected to generate $200 million in revenue.

While the CFIA offered $942,000 for the slaughter of 314 birds, the owners argue this amount was inadequate and did not reflect fair market value. The CFIA defended the cull as a necessary measure to prevent virus mutation and protect human health, stating that allowing an exposed flock to remain alive allows a potential source of the virus to persist. The RCMP stated that the Department of Justice will review the claim before issuing a statement of defence.