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The votes are in: Sarnia names its official bird

Journal staff Residents have spoken and the red-headed woodpecker is Sarnia’s official bird.
Citybird
The Red-Headed Woodpecker has been selected as the official City Bird of Sarnia. (Submitted photo)

Journal staff

Residents have spoken and the red-headed woodpecker is Sarnia’s official bird.

The announcement was made over the weekend following a poll conducted by Bird Friendly Sarnia — a group of bird-enthusiasts working towards certifying Sarnia as a ‘bird friendly city.’

“Known for its striking pattern of a crimson head, snow-white body, and half white, half inky black wings, the Red-Headed Woodpecker is a unique and beautiful species that stands out from other woodpeckers,” the group stated in a news release. “Not only is it an adept insect-catcher, but it also loves to feast on acorns and beech nuts, often storing them in tree crevices for later consumption.”

Other birds on the ballot were the tufted titmouse, ring-billed gull, Coopers hawk and black-capped chickadee.

The group called the selection of the red-headed woodpecker “a testament to the city's commitment to preserving and protecting its natural environment and biodiversity,” noting that the bird has suffered from habitat loss and changes in food supply, leading to a severe decline in its population over the past few decades.

“By selecting it as the official City Bird of Sarnia, the city hopes to raise awareness of its plight and work towards preserving its natural habitat and food sources.”

For more information on Bird Friendly Sarnia, visit their Facebook page.


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