Active operations at Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood are over for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and RCMP.
The CFIA previously reported the cull of 314 birds and disposal of the ostrich carcasses, eggs and other material, all of which were disposed of through deep burial in an approved British Columbia landfill.
The agency wrapped up work Thursday, and says its actions were completed under the authority of the Health of Animals Act and Regulations. RCMP were also observed leaving the farm Nov. 13.
But Animal Justice says the "horrifying" method of shooting the birds was inhumane and is calling for a review of the process.
"Shooting hundreds of ostriches in full view of one another is a method that would have caused extreme fear and suffering, and it should never have been considered acceptable," said lawyer and Animal Justice executive director Camille Labchuk.
The farm's premises are still quarantined under the Health of Animals Act, but the blue fencing has come down, exposing bare pens and enclosure of what once held hundreds of ostriches.
Anyone entering the area requires permsision from CFIA as the quarantined areas are still subject to biocontainment requirements. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is not required unless entering designated zones related to the quarantine.
The CFIA says all equipment was disinfected when leaving designated zones.
An avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak was declared at the farm in December 2024 and a full cull of the entire herd was ordered by the CFIA. The farm fought the order at every level of court, hence the delay, but did not win the case.
The ostriches were killed on Nov. 6.
"Every HPAI infected premises must follow a standardized path to resuming operations including completion of CFIA-approved cleaning and disinfection before CFIA quarantine restrictions are lifted," the agency said. "A fallow period with CFIA oversight may also be required after cleaning and disinfection."
The farm has been provided with documentation about the requirements for cleaning and disinfection and the ongoing requirement for permits until the quarantine is removed.
Any formal request for compensation will be reviewed in accordance with the Health of Animals Act and the Compensation for Destroyed Animals and Things Regulations (CDATR).
"The CDATR are the regulations that set the parameters and eligibility for compensation that may be provided to owners who have been ordered to destroy their animals or things," the CFIA said. "The objective of the CDATR is to encourage the early reporting of animal disease, and the cooperation of owners in eradication efforts."