Canada/Les Gatinois have chosen the pileated woodpecker as their emblem bird

A "relentless woodworker reminiscent of the region's industrial history" will become the Ville de Gatineau's emblem bird.

The pileated woodpecker came out on top in a citizens' vote conducted from May 9 to June 4, the municipality announced on Tuesday. Four other species were in the running: the Wood Duck, the White-breasted Nuthatch, the American Waxwing and the American Kingfisher.

The initiative is part of the Biodiversity Action Plan adopted by elected officials last December. It is also part of Gatineau's bid to obtain Bird-Friendly City certification from Nature Canada.

Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette joked that she was surprised the goose wasn't in the running. We often talk about them for their presence in our public parks and beaches," she said, smiling.

On a more serious note, she said she was very happy with the choice and that the pileated woodpecker is a beautiful emblem.

It's the public's choice. The vote was pretty clear in favor of the Grand Pic," added the mayor.

Nearly 4,200 people took part in the citizens' vote. The Grand Pic was the choice of 31% of them.

This announcement is conditional on its adoption by the members of the municipal council at its monthly meeting on Tuesday evening.

Gatineau is not the first city in the province to opt for the grand pic. Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue designated this species as its emblem bird two years ago.

The pileated woodpecker was also a candidate in Quebec City, but its population turned to the red cardinal last May.

Ville de Gatineau points out that the Pileated Woodpecker plays an important role in maintaining local biodiversity.

The cavities it excavates are essential for several other animal species that need them for nesting," it points out.

It also evokes pride, an important Gatineau value, through its majestic appearance, natural presence and resilience.

The Club des ornithologues de l'Outaouais notes that more than 300 bird species can be observed on Gatineau territory. The Deschênes district, in the Aylmer sector, has been identified as the fifth best place in Quebec for birdwatching.

Source: ici.radio-canada.ca/