A shadow hangs over Universal Ostrich Farms in British Columbia, even after initial reports of charges being dropped. The farm, and the family behind it, remain entangled in a legal battle following the devastating cull of over 300 ostriches.
The story began with an avian influenza outbreak and a desperate fight to save a unique flock. For nearly eleven months, Karen Espersen and her daughter, Katie Pasitney, waged a legal war against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, attempting to prevent the destruction of their birds.
Their efforts culminated in a heartbreaking defeat when the Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear their case. The order came down: the ostriches were to be culled. On the night of November 6th, professional marksmen carried out the grim task, silencing the farm.
Shortly after the cull, Espersen and Pasitney were arrested, accused of obstructing CFIA officials. They had refused to leave the ostrich enclosure, a final act of defiance against the agency’s control. They were released with the condition they stay away from the pen.
A video posted by Pasitney initially sparked hope, claiming the charges had been dropped and a scheduled court appearance cancelled. However, RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark clarified that the initial court date had simply “lapsed,” and new legal proceedings are anticipated.
Despite the uncertainty, Pasitney’s message conveyed a renewed determination. She spoke of “putting their armour back on” and fighting for broader changes to the CFIA’s handling of avian influenza outbreaks, a battle for all Canadians.
The family continues to grapple with the emotional and practical aftermath of losing their flock. The ostriches themselves are now buried in a landfill, a stark and final chapter in this unfolding saga.
Investigations are still underway regarding the events surrounding the enforcement operation, and the possibility of future charges remains open. The farm, once a vibrant haven for these extraordinary birds, now stands as a symbol of a deeply contested struggle.
