Home / Crime and Justice / Ostrich Farm Sues Govt Over $200M Loss
Ostrich Farm Sues Govt Over $200M Loss
4 Nov
Summary
- Farm owners sue government over alleged loss of $200 million business.
- Lawsuit claims unlawful seizure of 1,200 ostrich eggs destroyed business.
- CFIA cull of 351 ostriches due to avian flu sparks legal action.
Owners of Universal Ostrich Farms are pursuing legal action against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the federal government, and the RCMP. They claim the government's actions resulted in the loss of a business valued at a projected $200 million. The lawsuit, filed on October 30, 2026, alleges that the seizure of 1,200 ostrich eggs was unlawful and led to the irreversible destruction of the farm's operations.
The plaintiffs, including Landco Ventures, which owns the Edgewood, B.C., property, assert that CFIA staff and others engaged in cruelty and trespassed on the farm. Warrants served provided no legal right to occupy the property, according to the suit. The legal action also highlights that compensation was offered for only 314 ostriches, despite 351 birds being present when warrants were served.
The CFIA stated the cull in November 2025 was a necessary measure after ostriches tested positive for avian flu approximately 11 months prior. The farm's months-long efforts to prevent the birds' deaths garnered support from protesters and figures associated with the U.S. President's administration.
