The City of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue announces the choice of its emblematic bird: the Pileated Woodpecker. The identification of an emblematic bird is a significant step in the city's commitment as a "Bird-Friendly City".

The official unveiling of the emblematic bird took place on September 9 during the ninth edition of Naturellement Sainte-Anne.

For the occasion, Paola Hawa, Town Mayor, Gabriel Vézina, Recreation Coordinator and Ryan Young, Town Councillor, were on hand to share the news with residents. Following the announcement, banners were put up around town to celebrate this recognition.

To arrive at a consensus choice, the involvement of residents was essential. To this end, a two-phase questionnaire was submitted to residents over the past few weeks. At the end of this process, the municipal council met to compile the results. As a result, the Pileated Woodpecker was chosen as Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue's emblematic bird.

A first in Quebec

In 2022, the city of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue became the first municipality in the province of Quebec, and the thirteenth in Canada, to be certified as a "Bird-Friendly City" by Nature Canada.

This designation was awarded in recognition of the city's commitment to implementing policies and initiatives aimed at creating a welcoming environment for wild birds, helping them to thrive within the municipality.