The Town of Hudson is asking for the help of its citizens to determine the town's official bird. A survey is underway until Sunday, May 5, for residents interested in participating. 

The five pre-selected birds are found on Hudson territory. The Centre de conservation des oiseaux sauvages Le Nichoir suggested the five competing species: 

1) SLEEPING SWIFT: Although the Chimney Swift is very present in Hudson's summer skies, populations of this bird are plummeting. In Quebec, it is included on the list of threatened species. The Chimney Swift is a unique species. It nests in brick chimneys and can spend all day flying around hunting insects.

2) RUSTIC Swallow: The barn swallow is found all over the world, but in Canada it is a threatened species. In Hudson, they often nest in old barns, ideal places to hear their chatter. Declining numbers of insects, habitat loss and climate change have caused the Barn Swallow population to plummet.

3) WOOD THRIVE: An endangered species in Canada, the Wood Thrush requires large hardwood forests to survive. That's why it can be found in interior woodlands in Hudson. Its complex song is often described as otherworldly.

4) AMERICAN KINGFISHER: A fisher par excellence, the American Kingfisher lives up to its name. In Hudson, it can be seen along the Viviry River and around the ponds. Since it nests in tunnels dug in the riparian strip, loss of riparian habitat is causing declines in its population.

5) GOGLU DES PRÉS: As its name suggests, the Goglu des prés inhabits natural meadows, prairies and mown meadows. Rather rare, it can sometimes be seen in meadows west of Hudson.In Quebec, the loss of its habitat has led to its being placed on the list of vulnerable species. 

You can register your choice at the link on the Town of Hudson's Facebook page.