Universal Ostrich Farms is suing the federal government and RCMP, alleging unlawful seizures, animal cruelty and property damage during last year’s controversial cull of hundreds of ostriches at farm in Edgewood.
More than 300 ostriches were culled at the farm by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in November 2025, following an avian flu outbreak that was first detected in December 2024.
The lawsuit was filed Oct. 30 in B.C. Supreme Court by Universal Ostrich Farms Inc. and Landco Ventures Inc., which owns the property.
The plaintiffs allege there were 351 birds on the property when the CFIA executed search warrants in September 2025, but the agency offered $942,000 in compensation for 314 birds.
The lawsuit claims 37 ostriches remain unaccounted for.
“The full extent of missing birds has not been disclosed to Universal, and CFIA has provided no satisfactory explanation for the discrepancy,” reads the claim.
The document said the farm’s owners rejected the compensation offer, arguing it did not reflect the flock’s fair market value.
The lawsuit also alleges the CFIA unlawfully seized about 1,200 ostrich eggs that were essential to a planned dietary supplement and pill business.
According to the claim, the business was nearing a commercial launch and had projected revenue exceeding $200 million.
“The CFIA’s unlawful seizure of Universal’s eggs entirely and irreversibly destroyed this commercial enterprise and eliminated all associated revenues, investments and business opportunities,” reads the lawsuit.
The claim further alleges CFIA staff mishandled the ostriches during quarantine and slaughter operations, contrary to animal welfare laws and the agency’s own guidelines.
Landco Ventures also alleges the CFIA and RCMP occupied the property around the clock between Sept. 22 and Nov. 13, 2025, restricting the owners’ access to and use of the land.
Both plaintiffs are seeking damages for alleged trespass, negligence, harassment and other claims, as well as remedies related to the property and materials seized.
The allegations have not been proven in court.
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