Professional marksmen have culled an ostrich herd in British Columbia, Canada, bringing to a close a legal battle that garnered attention from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., according to reports received November 8, 2025. The Canadian Food Inspection agency (CFIA) authorized the action after the birds were confirmed to be infected wiht avian influenza, a highly contagious disease impacting poultry populations across the country.
The controversial case stemmed from initial resistance to culling the ostriches by the farm owner, escalating into a legal dispute over the CFIA’s authority to enforce disease control measures. Kennedy Jr. publicly commented on the situation, raising concerns about government overreach and the potential impact on food security. The resolution marks the end of a protracted standoff and underscores the challenges of managing avian flu outbreaks in commercial bird operations.
As of October 28, 2025, British Columbia has reported more avian flu cases than any other Canadian province, with approximately 11,439,000 birds affected, according to CFIA statistics. The outbreak has significantly impacted the Canadian poultry industry, valued at $7 billion. Neighboring Alberta is the next most affected province, reporting around 2 million impacted birds.
The CFIA maintains that swift and decisive action, including humane culling, is crucial to contain the spread of the virus and protect the broader poultry sector.The agency’s response aligns with international animal health standards and aims to minimize economic losses and prevent further disruption to the food supply.
