ISDA closes investigation into Kuna ostrich farm

KUNA, Idaho — The Idaho Department of Agriculture has closed its investigation into American Ostrich Farms in Kuna following a follow-up inspection of the facility. A former employee had accused the farm of animal abuse, which prompted the first inspection by the ISDA.

• ISDA conducted an initial inspection of the farm on March 13, 2024. The follow-up inspection took place on May 29, 2024.
• During both inspections, investigators were unable to find any evidence of mistreatment or cruelty to animals.
• For ISDA’s follow-up report, see the story below.

(Below is the transcript of the broadcast report.)

The Idaho Department of Agriculture has completed its investigation of American Ostrich Farms in Kuna after conducting a follow-up inspection of the facility.

As we previously reported, American Ostrich Farms was accused by a former employee of mistreatment and abuse of its animals.

The Idaho Department of Agriculture investigated these claims and found “no evidence of mistreatment or mishandling of the birds” during its initial inspection.

Given the nature of the claims, they decided to conduct a follow-up inspection of the facility 11 weeks after their initial visit.

I have requested a copy of the follow-up report.

ISDA

The report states that the investigator inspected the facility and observed the birds in each pen. The investigator “found no deficiencies in the facility or animal care at this time.”

I spoke with the owner of American Ostrich Farms after the initial ISDA inspection.
He told me that keeping his cattle healthy was good for business and that they welcomed inspections of their facilities.

“And that’s why we’re happy that a regulatory agency is now coming in and putting its official stamp on what we believe to be true: namely, that we treat our animals with a lot of love and care,” said Alex McCoy, founder and CEO of the farm, in an interview in May.

According to ISDA, this inspection is the final measure in response to the original request.