Culling of ostriches under way

By Chanel September

Hundreds of ostriches are being culled following an outbreak of avian influenza near Mossel Bay, in the Western Cape.

Dr James Kitching Western Cape’s veterinary chief said on Wednesday that a couple of thousand ostriches will be culled, the number is small and can be compared to the same number a single abattoir handles in a week.

The department of Agriculture placed an ostrich farm near Mossel Bay under quarantine when the flu was detected.

According to the CapeTimes consumers can be assured that local ostrich meat remains safe for consumption.