National Bird of Canada Act

Bill S-221, National Bird of Canada Act, the bill names the Canada jay as Canada's national bird. It is at Third reading as of June 11, 2026. Sponsored by Salma Ataullahjan (Senator).

Status
Third reading · June 11, 2026
Sponsor
  • Salma Ataullahjan (Senator)
Full Title:
An Act to provide for the recognition of the Canada jay as the national bird of Canada

Summary#

This bill would make the Canada jay the official national bird of Canada. It is a symbolic law that names the species but does not change any other rules.

  • Declares the Canada jay (also known as the grey jay or “whiskey jack”) as Canada’s national bird.
  • Does not create any new programs, rules, or penalties.
  • Does not change hunting, conservation, or wildlife laws.
  • Gives the federal government a clear bird symbol it may use in education, tourism, and branding.
  • Recognizes the bird’s cultural ties, including names used by First Peoples.

What it means for you#

  • General public

    • No action needed. You may see the Canada jay used more often in federal websites, displays, or events.
    • Schools and museums may feature the bird more in lessons and exhibits.

  • Hunters and anglers

    • No change to seasons, licences, or protections. The bill does not add special legal status.

  • Indigenous communities

    • The preamble notes traditional names and stories (such as the Cree word wîskicahk), but the bill does not create new rights or programs.

  • Tourism and businesses

    • You may choose to use the Canada jay in marketing, souvenirs, or events. There is no requirement to change any materials.

  • Governments and agencies

    • May update imagery or educational materials over time, but there is no mandate to rebrand or replace existing items.

Expenses#

Estimated annual cost: minimal to none for the federal government.

  • No new programs or enforcement.
  • Possible small, one-time costs if agencies choose to add the Canada jay to websites, displays, or promotional materials.
  • Any coin or stamp designs featuring the bird would come from existing budgets and normal design cycles.

Proponents' View#

  • Gives Canada a national bird like other countries have, filling a symbolic gap.
  • The Canada jay fits the country well: it lives year-round across all provinces and territories and thrives in cold.
  • The species is not endangered or hunted, so the choice avoids management conflicts.
  • A clear national bird can support education, tourism, and pride in nature.
  • Acknowledges cultural links, including long-standing names and stories used by First Peoples.

Opponents' View#

  • Primarily symbolic and not a priority compared with other issues.
  • Even small updates to imagery can take time and money.
  • Some people may prefer a different bird and could dispute the choice.
  • Concerns that national symbols should follow broader public consultation.
  • Might cause confusion if people assume the bird now has special legal protections when it does not.