Residents of Vernon, British Columbia are protesting a city order to cull ostriches, claiming unfair targeting. The dispute arose after an ostrich escaped in January, prompting the city to invoke a bylaw typically reserved for farm animals.
Ostrich owners argue their birds are pets, not livestock, and the cull order is an overreach. Supporters have taken to the streets, demonstrating against what they see as unjust treatment. The protestors feel the city is unfairly blaming them for the single incident.
The situation highlights a growing debate about urban animal ownership and the application of agricultural regulations to non-traditional pets. Owners are hoping the city will reconsider, potentially granting them a special permit or amending the bylaw to accommodate exotic pets. They are worried that if the city succeeds, it will negatively affect the exotic pet industry.
The future of Vernon’s ostriches remains uncertain, but the passionate response from the community suggests this issue is far from resolved. The city council is expected to meet soon to further discuss the situation and address the concerns raised by ostrich owners and their supporters. The demonstrators want to keep the pressure on city hall.
