Québec Picks White Admiral as Official Insect

Summary#

• This bill would add the White Admiral butterfly as an official symbol of Québec. It amends the law on Québec’s flag and emblems to name this species as the province’s emblematic insect.

• It does not create any new rules, programs, or protections. It takes effect once the National Assembly gives final approval.

• Key points:

  • Names the White Admiral (scientific name: Limenitis arthemis arthemis) as Québec’s official insect.
  • Updates the list of provincial emblems in law.
  • No changes to hunting, habitat, or environmental rules.
  • Mostly symbolic, used in education and promotion.
  • Becomes official on the date the bill is signed into law.

What it means for you#

• General public

  • No direct changes to daily life, services, or taxes.
  • You may see the White Admiral used more in schools, parks, museums, and tourism materials.

• Schools and educators

  • Likely to use the White Admiral in lessons about Québec identity and nature.
  • Possible updates to posters, websites, and learning materials over time.

• Government agencies and public institutions

  • May update websites, signage, and printed materials to include the new emblem.
  • Could use the symbol in promotional and cultural events.

• Businesses and tourism groups

  • May feature the White Admiral in branding or souvenirs tied to Québec identity.
  • No new licensing or restrictions are created by this bill.

• Environmental impact

  • This bill does not add legal protection for the species or its habitat.
  • Any conservation actions would need separate laws or programs.

Expenses#

• Estimated government cost: minimal, mainly one-time updates to materials.

• Possible costs:

  • Updating government websites, brochures, and educational content.
  • Refreshing some displays in museums, parks, or visitor centers as resources allow.
  • No new programs, grants, or enforcement costs are created by the bill text.

Proponents' View#

• Celebrates Québec’s nature and adds to the set of official symbols that build shared identity.
• Provides a clear, recognizable insect for use in education, tourism, and cultural events.
• Encourages interest in biodiversity and outdoor learning among students and families.
• Low-cost way to promote pride in Québec’s wildlife.

Opponents' View#

• Largely symbolic and does not address pressing issues like cost of living or health care.
• Even small updates to materials and signage can add minor costs without practical benefit.
• May cause debate over which species should represent the province.
• Could create confusion if people assume the emblem has special legal protection, which it does not.