Common loon (Gavia immer )

On this night in Algonquin Park it is loons—the doormen of each lake, black-tie emissaries that cavort with us like dolphins—who put on a veritable vocal Olympics. A classic, lonely cry rises from one end of the lake, and a laughing, maniacal answer emanates from the other; while these echo around the water more join in and soon the sounds are bouncing off all sides, colliding in the middle like waves in a bathtub. It’s odd something like this can seem both eerie and comforting in the same instant. “The loon here is laughing again,” wrote John McPhee, “so I laugh back. He laughs. I laugh. He laughs. I laugh. He will keep it up until I am hoarse. He likes conversation. He talks this way with other loons. I am endeavoring to tell him that he is a hopeless degenerate killer of trout. He laughs.”

Despite ease of association with the word “lunatic,” loons are actually named for their strange walk—moving on land like a bent over penguin about to tip over beak first. But their discomfort with terra firma, on which they spend perilously little time, and then only during nesting season, is the flipside of an exquisite adaptation to lake living. The Common Loon (Gavia immer) can be just shy of a meter in size and weigh 5 kilos. With legs set far back and molded into powerful paddles, it can rocket like a torpedo underwater, twisting and turning after fish and invertebrate prey, and diving to 60 meters. In turn loons are eaten by large fish, and devious raccoons, weasels and skunks when they’re nesting. First Nations hunters have a small loon quota in parts of Algonquin, but the population remains very stable; it’s difficult to go an hour without seeing one.

Myles has been determined to photograph a loon, which she’s familiar with as a cottage creature but has never seen so close. We’ve followed many on the water; sometimes they’ve let us approach, other times not so much. In either case, with the wide-angle lenses and shutter delay of most digital point-and-shoots, it has been hard to get a solid image. Indeed most of our shots are so vague that they could easily be de-saturated (color removed) on a computer and submitted to some cryptozoology site as evidence of an Algonquin lake monster. But tracking these birds isn’t easy; their movements are, at least to anyone who isn’t a loon biologist, notoriously random: when a loon dives you have no clue if it will pop up next to you or half a kilometre away; their whole body may surface or just their head and neck; sometimes, when they feel particularly threatened, only their beak will appear, vertically like a snorkel; two loons diving together may come up far apart or vice versa; loons may display no interest in you whatsoever or be obviously curious. But whatever they do, as McPhee notes, they will laugh it off in characteristic style, as if the joke of their unpredictability is on the observer.

The loon indeed authenticates a northern lake, and in so doing has, to some extent, authenticated an entire country. This, I tell Myles, is the reason Canada’s bronze-plated one-dollar coin with a loon emblazoned on the reverse (Queen Lizzy II on the obverse, of course)—which should, by rights, really just be called “a dollar”—quickly became the “Loonie” after its 1987 introduction. Loonie was so widely recognized that the Royal Canadian Mint bought rights to the name in 2006, making it the official label for Canada’s currency in global financial markets. And the backstory is even better viz serene, dark, quiet, wilderness lakes: similar to Canada’s previous silver dollar, the new coin was meant to have a voyageur theme, but the master dies were lost in transit to the mint and a different design was needed stat in order to avoid possible counterfeiting. So ubiquitous was the term Loonie that Canada’s two-dollar coin—which dropped in 1996, should have been similarly un-noteworthy, and actually has a polar bear on the back—was instantly known by the portmanteau “Toonie.”

Yes, people seem to genuinely dig these crazy birds. They’re mascot worthy. If the souvenir industry in this country weren’t already so crowded, the loon, with the right management team, could dethrone beer, bacon, beaver, maple leaf, donut, inukshuk—Mounties for gawd’s sake. Just for being certifiable. How Canadian! I might be ranting a bit to Myles but I’m making a point.

—What do you think of all that?

She looks up from her crossword. It seemed like she’d been listening, but apparently that had stopped when she started thinking.

—How far can loons see underwater?
—Further than us. Further than fish.
—And above water.
—Pretty far, I guess.
—At night, too?
—Probably not.
—Then what are they all doing out there?

As if in a ham-fisted attempt to provide their own explanation, a strong commotion breaks out on the water. Splashing and wing-flapping. Desperate ululation.

—Who cares what you think? I yell out of the tent for fun, you’re just a bunch of dumb birds!

They laugh.

Canada’s common thread

Doug Tozer, Ontario Program Scientist, Bird Studies Canada

Canadians love being outdoors. Fishing, birding, camping, hunting, backpacking, boating, canoeing, cottaging — you name it. We all crave natural areas in some form or another. It’s hard to figure out precisely why, but perhaps deep down there is something fundamentally Canadian about enjoying and conserving our vast healthy tracts of wilderness. Maybe it’s reassuring for us to see first-hand that large portions of our wonderful country are still alive and well, beyond the urban sprawl and pollution that surround many of us daily.

Canadians are diverse in the ways we choose to enjoy the outdoors, but a common thread connects us all — a symbol, which Canadians and others around the world associate with untouched wilderness, and by association, a healthy Canadian environment. That common thread is the Common Loon, now widely considered an iconic indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems. From my perspective, there is no better bird to represent what it means to be Canadian.

Did you know that 95 per cent of the world’s Common Loons breed in Canada? The Common Loon occurs regularly in every province and territory. It even appears on our one-dollar coin, the “loonie.” The species is instantly and easily recognized by just about everyone.

Common Loons lead surprisingly mysterious and complex lives. They are fierce defenders of their territories, which can lead to violent battles between male rivals — sometimes even resulting in death. Each male’s call is unique, and his vocal characteristics convey information to other males about his weight and associated fighting ability. Another fascinating behaviour involves social gatherings numbering up to several dozen birds, where loons float around on the surface of the water and peer into each other’s eyes. Researchers have not yet determined why they do this.

The loon is readily observed as it spends most of its time floating around, often calling loudly from the middle of many of Canada’s tens of thousands of lakes. Through Bird Studies Canada’s Canadian Lakes Loon Survey, hundreds of citizen scientists each year help track the numbers of chicks that Common Loons produce as an indicator of the extent of acid rain, mercury pollution, and the associated health of our lakes, one of the most prized components of our wild spaces. Results show that loon reproductive success has declined over the past two decades, but is still high enough to support a stable population.

This well-known, intriguing species represents Canada’s globally-renowned wilderness and our love of the outdoors like no other species can. As such, it should be Canada’s national bird.

Dr. Doug Tozer is a long-time birder who grew up in the heart of Canada’s “loon country.” He is Ontario Program Scientist at Bird Studies Canada, where he coordinates the Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program and the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey, and oversees scientific aspects of various other programs and research projects.

J'aurais bien voté pour la mésange bicolore qui reste chez moi à l'année longue...même si son chant n'est pas joli! De toute façon,la pauvrette, elle n'était pas dans la liste.

j'aurais voté pour le junco ardoisé qui arrive quand il va geler et disparait après les neiges et le dernier petit gel. Parce que cet oiseau me fait rigoler: tout gris, on dirait qu'on a trempé son ventre dans du lait. Plus il fait froid plus il est heureux...mais malheureusement, il ne chante pas !

Celui qui chante si bien ...mais qui n'était pas dans la liste: le moqueur-chat: il imite bien les « miaou » mais ses longues melodies varies me charmeront toujours...

Alors oui, J'ai voté pour le huard.

Les fameuses trois notes plaintives mélodieuses du huard...on ne s'en lasse jamais.

Et, bien que son nom soit associé à notre monnaie, et que notre dollars a pris une méchante débacle, j'ai quand même voté pour le huard!

Le son de cet oiseau aquatique , qui ne nage même pas sur mon lac (le Lac Champlain )est vraiment représentatif de nos magnifiques grands espaces.

J'aime bien entendre ses cris tremblotés...comme des vaguelettes sur un lac.

Mais les trois longues notes harmoniques du huard est un appel indescriptible, mais viscéral.

C'est l'appel du Canada.

C'est un appel au respect des peuples des premières nations, au respect de la nature, de nos eaux, de nos forêts, de l'air que l'on respire.

Son cri est aussi un rappel à l'ordre qui nous dit:
aimons notre pays dans sa magnifique diversité et tâchons de conserver et préserver sa beauté afin qu'il soit encore possible d'y vivre longtemps en harmonie.

L'harmonie du cri du huard.

Merci de m'avoir lue.
J'habite dans un sanctuaire d'oiseaux migrateurs...un peu laissé à l'abandon et peu considéré...
Je suis une jeune vielle imigrante...arrivée au Canada, pour passer 4 semaines en août 1968, je suis encore là et fêterais mes 70 ans le 26 août...

J'ai du recevoir l'appel du huard au fond de mon Coeur !

I grew up in the city. My family did not camp or rent a cottage in the summers, and coming from Quebec I also didn't grow up with a particularly strong sense of "Canadian identity.” I considered myself a Montrealer first & foremost. That all changed, however, when I went to university abroad through Queens University, Kingston and made many friends from Ontario. One of these friends has a family cottage up in Georgian Bay on a small private island. There for the first time I really felt was it was to be Canadian, and what it was to be immersed in the Canadian wilderness.

The island is solid rock covered in tall, very old trees. The ground is a soft, dry, rusty brown carpet of their needles, which creates a pervasive hush. One morning, I awoke just after dawn; the sky was grey and rain was falling steadily. It was the kind of rain that was made of big fat drops falling steadily — peaceful, unhurried but constant. Nobody else was up yet, and I luxuriated in my warm bed in the cold room. A thick breeze came in through the open window near my face, fragrant with the smell of the lake, the trees and the sodden ground outside. As I lay there, thunder rumbled in the distance — deep, but somehow peaceful. I closed my eyes, and then I heard it: the iconic call of the loon. It was one of the most beautiful sounds I'd ever heard.

Crystal clear, piercing through the complex canvas of other ambient sounds, that loon's call was both an intricate part of the landscape and the most solitary thing in it.

We carry the familiar image of a loon on coins, but how that etching pales in comparison to the ethereal, plaintive sound of their cry reverberating across the still water. The loon is an emblem of our collective heritage, but also of the land and peoples the way they were before Europeans came here.

For this reason I vote for the common loon, so uncommon in its beauty, to be Canada's national bird. It ties our past to our present, and embodies that very Canadian quality of subtle bravery. Even in a storm, one loon called out to another in the dark.

As a child and young adult in Australia I was fascinated by the haunting call of the common loon. This was the sound of the great Canadian wilderness. It, and images of the Great Canadian Rockies lured me to Canada for what was supposed to be a two year visit. That was in 1967 and I have lived in the Similkameen valley since 1970. I did not hear the loon's live call until the 1990's, I simply was not in the right place at the right time and my travel was restricted by various circumstances. Then freedom from those circumstances sent me on a quest to experience the call of the loon. I was surprised at 4:20 am, while in an outhouse at a summer cabin close by Whatshan Lake near the Arrow Lakes (Faquier) when this wondrous sound first sent tingles through my spine. I recognized the haunting call immediately and truly felt Canadian. Since then I have sought out lakes to camp by just so I can enjoy the loon's presence. Other calls of the wildlife excite and haunt but the loon epitomizes Canadian wilderness. May we be wise enough to leave them space forever.

I choose the loon as the national bird of Canada because it has always represented the part of my identity that I relate to home and to my native country. My grand-mother, who grew up in Lac St Jean, Québec, always loved them. Amongst her vast collection of old carved mallards and hand painted wood ducks were always found the few stoic loons that caught my attention a coat of white spotted black, bringing forth visions of floating figures gliding across an obsidian lake, melting in the glass-like reflection of the starry night sky.

I have had the privilege of living in and visiting many countries. My father, being a major in the Royal Canadian Air Force, gave my siblings and I the opportunity to expand our sense of the world and truly experience the vastness of Earth.
Whilst in England, in elementary school, I taught classmates the french word for loon: huard. During my time in Colorado Springs, Colorado, I was reminded of the particular name given to our unique dollar coin, the loonie. Many times have I had to enlightened the intrigued of the meaning behind the currency's curious title: a solitary loon, proud and still, as if at guard, clad in gold, protecting the face of a nation.

In my travels, trekking through the rugged wilderness of the eastern provinces, I have been reminded of the loon's lonesome, wolven wails coming from the direction of a lake, filling the silence of night with enchanting song.

I understand why my grandmother held such a humble, but important, respect for the loon and I hold that same respect, for the loon will always remind me of my home in Canada.

It was a tough call between my three finalists - The Snowy Owl, The Great Blue Heron and the Common Loon. In the end, however, I feel that nothing really captures the mood of our northern wilderness quite like the call of a loon; forlorn, distant and resonant. I have been fortunate to have a cottage in Quebec since I was 8 (which, alarmingly, means I have been returning to that cottage for 42 years now). Each year, even as things change around us, there has always been a family of loons on the lake - and they are as much a part of the fabric of the landscape as the surrounding White Pines, the lap of the lake and the quiet of the North. And. really - let's face it - Owls are kind of annoyingly aloof and, well - don't even get me started on Herons...

Additionally, the behavior of the Loon seems distinctly Canadian - they raise their young with quiet determination, they travel in loose-knit groups when fishing that allow for individual action while still maintaining a respect for the whole, and when they choose to cry out vocally it is with purpose and not just for the sake of hearing their own voices - which, as an expat living in the United States, is a distinction that seems particularly apt and uniquely Canadian.

Politically, Loons are known for their even-handedness - which is surely a reflection of their Canadian souls. And while the debate is still ongoing - it's generally accepted that 3 out of 4 Loons surveyed rejected Bill C-51 out of hand after fully reading the language it contains. But the point is - they read it! Herons, on the other hand, a straight party-line voters who most likely have vested interests in security companies... AND they are known to pee in their own nests.

In matters of foreign policy Loons send a clear and unwavering message - "We want to eat your fish". This clarity of mission is what allows them to travel freely to the United States during the winter months (much like other Canadians) and, while the surly Yankee residents of the Eastern seaboard may not be thrilled to have our Loons around during the winter months - they certainly could never say that they weren't warned about exactly why they are there or how long they are staying. Yes indeed, from the point of view of diligence, our Common Loons have their paperwork in order and are truly citizens of the world.

In the arts Loons have excelled more than any other waterfowl and have been celebrated across multiple mediums from oil paintings, to watercolor, pastels, pen and ink, and even gouache, which I believe is a French word and, thus inherently celebrates our multicultural heritage. Loons even grace our most famous coin - the "Loonie". Try spending a "Heronie" or "SpottedOwlie and see where it gets you - nowhere, that's where.

Of additional significance is the fact that the Loon has sharp, rearward-pointing projections on the roof of its mouth and tongue that help it keep a firm hold on slippery fish - just like all Canadians! - and this alone should put the Common Loon right at the tippy top of the list.

The Common Loon is a peaceful bird - but when called to duty they have always been ready to serve. It's a little-known and utterly inaccurate fact that Common Loons were the first into action at both Dieppe and the Somme. If this were even remotely true, how could we even consider honoring a relentless Peacenik like the Great Blue Heron or a "drawing room soldier" like the Snowy Owl? If Loons are willing to stand up for Queen and Country - shouldn't we be willing to stand up for Loons? I mean really - is this even a question at this point?

Finally - we must address the elephant in the room. We are all aware of the rumors that have circulated regarding certain payments made by the Common Loon that are alleged to be in violation of both the spirit and letter of the law. The Loon and its attorneys want to assure you that these accusations are utterly without merit. The Loon has categorically said this time and time again and would really like to move on from this tabloid talking point as it is taking time away from more important matters of state like, say, eating all the fish in your lake. The Loon will not be taking an questions after this statement and thanks you for your time.

Common Loon: The Graceful Fisherman of Canada

An essay written and typed by Ryan Gordon on Sunday, March 15, 2015

Freshly graceful, this beautiful waterbird has lived and thrived on Canada's lakes and rivers for many years. Every single generation has remembered this black and white avian friend for its amazing ability to catching small fish from underwater, making it an excellent swimming expert. Besides asking it for great advice for our Olympic swimming team, I would like to explain three good reasons for the Common Loon to be adopted as Canada's National Bird, each reason being a true representation which reflects Canada's national identity.

First, the Common Loon represents Grace, a important trait that Canadians share as a united nation. To be graceful means to be have refined goals for professional and personal success in every single task we do, to be simple in our passion to charm and help out people in desperate situations and to be elegant in our movement for positive change in a ever-changing world now embracing a darker, more dramatic identity. The Common Loon is simply a beautiful bird with charming sounds and refined swimming abilities.

Second, the Common Loon represents Sensitivity, the all-connecting feeling that reminds us Canadians of our self-awareness of people's attitudes, feelings and circumstances, despite the negative changes we have experienced in our current environment and our busy lives. The Common Loon is concern for its mating partner and young chicks, due to two important facts: their inability to walk on land and their open vulnerability to deadly predators such as ospreys, eagles, foxes and sea otters; it prefers settling in clear freshwater lakes with coves and islands, offering protection and safety from danger. Because we are sensitive to difficult changes, we address our concerns for them by seeking better solutions, protecting each other by providing sage advice and making wise decisions that teach people important lessons in solving conflicts.

Third and last, The Common Loon represents Peace, the cornerstone which builds our foundation of a stronger, safer and a free Canada; the Common Loon enjoys a quiet peaceful environment with no disturbances and no visible dangers such as water pollution, various predators and human activity. It wants to be free to swim gracefully, hunting underwater for fresh pike and to enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature; Canadians want to establish friendships with people from all walks of life, to learn different cultures and traditions from one another and to share our concerns about important things affecting us and everyone else, in order to take action, stand together and be vigilant of our surroundings.

If there's anything we share with the Common Loon, we are simply well-communicative, observant, self-conscious, adaptable and powerfully defensive of our territorial realm. In our respective environments, we are swift, agile, talented and extraordinary brilliant with great comfort and sheer determination; The Common Loon displaying its awesome swimming abilities in clear freshwater lakes and Canada showcasing our active participation in winter activities such as hockey, speed skating, snowboarding and bobsledding. We will grow, thrive and stay in one place, even if it changes into something completely different to us.

So the next time you buy something from the supermarket and you pulled out a Canadian dollar from your wallet, then you walked across the street from the neighborhood to the quiet forests of Canada with your dollar in your hands, finally turning your attention to the Common Loon delivering its eerie call as it swim gracefully in a large freshwater lake, just remember one important advice: You're just as unique as the Common Loon, so make a chance to stay proud of being Canadian and be open about your peace of mind.

Now this concludes my reasons for the Common Loon being Canada's National Bird. Thank you for reading, dear listener!

When I was twelve years old, I found a Peterson's bird guide. There was something so beautiful and mystical about the way the Common Loon was drawn. I became obsessed. I found videos, sound clips, drawings, and photographs of the seabird and vowed to one-day study it. As a result, I researched universities in Canada. The two were synonymous. Loons are so symbolic of the primeval aura around Northern Wilderness, besides being perfectly common all over. In order to devote my life to the bird, I would almost have to go North.
I'm sixteen now, going on seventeen, and my ornithological dreams have stayed nearly the same.
I truly believe that the Common Loon represents Canada, and I would be honored to one day call it my national bird!

Cariboo Conversations.
Crusted evening, slices of chilled wind on Lac des Roches, waves and wolves chorus our family sheltered and happy with cards, crib, and a wee dram to pass the night. Cabin talk. Children rolling around the floor in sleep exhaustion from a day of fort building and fishing. I walk to the outhouse but the blaring stars outshine the meager flash light. Spotlights like we are on an endless stage. Silence for a moment then the sudden tremolo crescendo to some sort of rhythm I sense to be mine. Deep but shrill in cutting cold. Comforting. From inside the cabin my mother answers the loon as she always did. Cariboo conversations.

As a writer, self-published author, and proud Canadian, I truly believe that the "common loon" is a great choice for our national bird, because its pure and distinct beauty is unique only in this part of the world. The majority of the time that I spend out at my family's camp every year provides a constant reminder of this exceptional animal. Its captivating calls echo throughout the area, at a moment's notice, and are never missed. This bird will duck its head under the water without fail, perhaps just looking for food, or even its offspring. This animal proudly appears on our national coin, appropriately called the "loonie", so its place in our country's history has virtually and already been determined by the masses; especially the many citizens that are tremendously fond of the outdoors, yours truly included. Nowhere else on Earth will you come across such an elegant and pristine animal as part of nature, and its scenic, picturesque surroundings; no matter what time or season of the year that it happens to be. My vote is a ringing endorsement for this exceptional piece of our national natural landscape!

LOON
The serenity of nature
As the sun sets over the calm waters of a Canadian lake, the familiar, peaceful call of the loon surrounds us with a deep sense of well-being. It is a call that is known to every Canadian and is more a distinct symbol of our country than maple syrup, the log cabin or, dare I say it, the beaver. The loon resides in every province and territory and shares it’s lakes with boaters, fishers, canoeists, kayakers and swimmers. Loons are very caring parents; taking turns protecting and feeding their young, even carrying them on their backs the first few days when the water is too cold for the chicks. The chicks are born in early summer and are very vulnerable for the first weeks, unable to dive and potential prey to many predators. While the breeding pairs are territorial, they are also social, inviting other loons to come for short visits. Yes, it’s true that they winter in the south, but they save their distinctive black and white plumage for Canada, turning a dull grey when they leave for the winter. How Canadian to show their colours with pride at home, but be so humble when abroad. They return early in the spring to claim portions of the lake, find suitable nesting sites and start their family in an annual tradition. Whether you are a camper, cottager, hiker or just passing by, hearing the call of the loon confirms that you in a natural, beautiful part of our home called Canada. There is no better choice for a national bird than the loon (officially the Common Loon). Designating the loon as our national bird would be a fitting tribute for the serenity and national identity that the loon provides to us.

Logically: because unlike our other national symbol, the maple leaf, loons live in all provinces and territories in Canada.

Emotionally: because the haunting cry of the Loon floats out of the cool morning mist rising off the still lake. A Canadian icon.

Practically: It is already on our one dollar coin so we don't have to spend more money to promote it.

We as Canadians seem bent on duplicating so many other nations' choice of declaring an avian species to reflect our national identity. While I have my personal reservations to 'jumping on the bandwagon', and would argue that there are far more than one national identity across Canada, I think that if we are to a symbol, the Common Loon is the perfect candidate.

The Common Loon is found all across Canada's Provinces and Territories which reflects its ability to 'connect' the people of Canada and avoid controversy mired in regionalism. It is a humble symbol, and avoids the trumped-up pride that comes with choosing a raptor, such as the Bald Eagle. This typically un-American approach tends to define much of English Canada's national identity, and so is perhaps another valid argument in choosing this particular species as our national symbol. The Common Loon is also distinctly associated with the wilderness of Canada. Although it may be found in any and all bodies of water, from the lakes of our cities to the slow rivers of our flatlands, the Common Loon is most often associated with the great expanse of paddling country that makes up most of our territory, and is equally tied to the history of our country. It is almost synonymous with the peace and tranquility offered by our great landscapes. Who hasn't looked at an image of a misty lake in Northern Ontario and not imagined the cry of a Loon? Their very sound is so closely associated with the imagery of this country that it would be a disservice to ignore the link many of us feel with this creature.

The animal in question has transcended the bounds of nature and become intertwined with the fabric of our very economy. As I am sure we all know, the Common Loon has had a De Facto status amongst Canadians as a symbol of this country's economic power since the introduction of our handsome little dollar coin in 1987.

Finally, I must address the name of the animal in question. It is quintessential Canadiana that we adopt the Common Loon as out national symbol. Like the animal, we live in this region when we have the capability to fly south. Nonetheless, we stay, and as common loons we continue to call this land home.

Let us make the correct decision, let us choose the Common Loon.

I am 6 years old. I think it should be the loon because it is the sound of Canada and the sound of camping. I heard it at Keji National Park.

The Loon
Such a graceful bird
In all it's beauty, adorned with
It's black and white plumage.
As it glides over the water,
Head held high
A sad lonely call is heard
From the loon
Breaking the silence
On the misty lake
As I look on
The loon flaps it's wings
And flies away
Like the free spirit it is
I'm so grateful to be able
To glimpse if only

For a short time all the beauty
That nature has to offer us.
Always wanting to hear
The call of the loon.

That first call of the loon in early spring tells me that the warm weather is just ahead. I anxiously await my first camping trip in the woods . To all asleep to the sound of the loon and awaken to it.

I am a retired soldier of 25 years service. When I was away serving this country my thoughts would sometimes reflect home: camping with my family, the beauty of the wetlands, the call of a lone loon. Even now, the call of a loon to me echoes of a service person calling for home to seek peace and companionship.

(Sorry, the thoughts are there but the words will not come)
Peter Guy

While the loon may be common, the magnitude of its majesty is anything but. Consider this classic Canadian scenario: you wake up just as the faintest hints of sunlight pepper the Muskoka sky. For a brief moment you are confused by the quiet all around you that's right, this weekend you have gone out to the cottage to escape the corporate sterility of the metropolis to instead bathe in the serene, yet rugged, Canadian wilderness. You fill a mug with coffee, throw on a warm fleece jacket, and walk towards the lake through the morning fog, twigs crackling underfoot. A sliver of sun lands oh-so-conveniently on the adirondack chair on your deck, almost inviting you to sit and share the peace of the morning, and who are you to refuse? Yielding to your Canadian instincts, you sit and sip and appreciate the glory of nature, the power of solitude. But are you really alone? Closing your eyes as the warm sun shines on your face, you let the soothing silence envelope you until —

"WLALALALLALAOOOOALALO!"

What in the hell was that? Oh right, the haunting call of the common loon. Typical Canada.

I vote for the loon because it's already on our currency, it's memorable and it's sort of cute.

Also, I didn't get to illustrate it for the article in the magazine (I illustrated the 4 birds in the Jan/Feb issue of Canadian Geographic), and I feel sorry for it!

the common loon is very Canadian: intelligent (Sir John A), beautiful (Cdn landscape), elegant in flight and on land (Chris Hadfield), has a wide vocal range (Celine) and large vocabulary (Conrad Black), has a hearty laugh and a mournful cry (KD Lang), loves solitude when appropriate (a mountain lake), raucous when need be (Margaret Atwood), raises wonderful chicks (family-oriented), monogamous (like me :) ), smart enough to go south in winter but always returns (Leonard Cohen).

We used to tease my father by calling him St. Francis (of Assisi), so passionate was he about feeding and providing fresh drinking water for the backyard birds. He was also the outdoors man who explored the shorelines with us, took our little hands into his and wandered the trails, patiently explaining Nature's curiosities. I was about to vote for another species when I clicked on the Common Loon on behalf of my Dad, now long gone, for whom my choice was iconic. I'm 100 per cent happy with my choice, because it breeds in every province and territory in our vast and magnificent nation. I think that's an important consideration for our "national" bird.

There are so many birds that I associate with Canada, but I feel that the Common loon tops the list for some very important reasons. In examining the loon's behaviour and how we perceive this great bird, I'd like to offer some parallels to Canadian national identity that make the Common loon the right choice for our national bird — none of which have anything to do with our coinage.

While the vast majority of Canadians reside in urban centres, Canada is largely a vast and remote nation. For so many urbanites who associate Canada's wilderness makeup with the species they encounter on brief sojourns from city life, the loon certainly makes the list. Their range covers most of our country - even into the far North - making this bird a logical geographic choice as well.

Behaviourally, I believe the loon closely mirrors "us" as Canadians. Intensely loyal, this bird "mates for life". While we humans may not be as fortuitous, I like to think we represent this strength of character with our families, friends and neighbours - being there for each other until the end. Finally, who can speak about the Common loon without mentioning the familiar and haunting call - and perhaps it is this characteristic which I believe represents us as Canadians best. Quiet, unobtrusive, the Loon exists in their habitat in an understated way - but their distinctive, unmistakable call can be heard for some distance when threatened, defending their territories or communicating with their family units. How much more Canadian can you get!? We tend to be the nation that other countries respect and admire - but largely remains quiet, reserved and remote until provoked or called on to vocalize ourselves for the world to hear. Isn't that the Common loon to a "T"?

I vote for the common loon because I think it is a pervasive symbol of our lakes across the country. Canada is unique in the world for our freshwater resources. The existence of this plethora of lakes and rivers throughout most of the country not only defines the Canadian lifestyle but was an integral part of the lives of our aboriginal peoples as well as our development as a nation. The loon symbolizes the health of these ecosystems, a bellwether in our midst for what is inarguably our most important resource. The loon is a visually distinctive bird, elegant and striking. Watching a beautifully marked family of loons fishing is a mesmerizing dock activity. More importantly, its many haunting calls are buried in our consciousness. It is one of the first signs of ever-so-welcome springtime, omnipresent on starlit nights by the campfire, and late fall ennui is precipitated by the silence that follows their departure for the south - the coming months of hardship are defined by their absence. Calls so unique they are cause for endless practice so one can imitate their variations and join in on the midnight "party lines" across several lakes, or perhaps sidle up closer in a canoe to check on the young ones. Now it's true that not every single Canadian has experienced the wild glee heard in a midnight cacophony of loon communiques, but then, they could therefore be living anywhere. For someone to be able to say they have had a true Canadian experience, they have to hear the loons at night, otherwise they've never left the city. The daytime chatter and gabber is one thing, but the night 'yodels' are uniquely pitched to transmit across vast distances in our wilderness. Here in Canada we have 'vast distances to our wilderness'.

The Canada goose, while ubiquitous, is too much so. On our roads, in our parks, in our cities, fouling every waterway/surface they happen to cross. Considered by many to be "feathered rats," a step up from fast-food parking lot gulls, their honking is a somewhat sickly sound, and they have the bad habit of showing their ungainly land habits in public. Put them on a stamp and all, but as a national bird they lack the dignity to be our emissaries.

The heron is a beautiful bird, but who ever sees one? Not exactly a part of the national consciousness. There are several admirable raptors on the list, but to symbolize Canada? I can hear it - "C'mon, he's a really good mouser, and that one can pluck a rabbit out of the field." Are they identified with Canada? Now, the snowy owl is undoubtably beautiful, and pretty unique too, but I don't think it is much of a politician. It doesn't really do much to sell itself, other than be big and white against a snowy back.

A great many pretty songbirds, but again, I don't think they say that much about the country as a whole. You can spot a blue jay, and you can cheer for them too if you wish, but I don't think we need to be defined by the bird that defines the game - a bit too much marketing crossover. Chickadees are adorable. 'Nuff said.

My vote for the bird that epitomizes the Canadian landscape and our human experience within it is the common loon. If designated a national bird, perhaps there would be more pressure to protect its natural habitat? Water is, after all, the source of all life.

When I think about what makes an ideal candidate for Canada’s national bird, four criteria come to mind. First, it should be instantly recognized as a Canadian bird, with most of its world-wide distribution in Canada. Second, it should resonate with people nationally, not just in certain regions of the country. Third, the bird needs to have the “it” factor, capturing our imagination through its appearance, calls, and behaviour. And finally the bird should be embedded in our culture in some way.

Several birds stack up well against most of these criteria - birds such as the Canada goose, gray jay, common raven, snowy owl, white-throated sparrow and whooping crane all have their merits.

Perhaps the most obvious choice though is the common loon. Its breeding range looks almost like a map of Canada, leaving out only the high arctic. Its mystical calls and association with our country’s lakes have inspired a very large following among cottagers, canoe trippers and anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The number of “loon lakes” in Canada must be quite large, though possibly surpassed by the number of organizations that use the loon as their logo. The loon has been a part of native culture as well - “The Loon’s Necklace” is a Canadian film that describes the legend of how the loon got its white necklace, from a blind medicine man. There is even a Canadian Lakes Loon Survey, run by Bird Studies Canada with data from volunteers, to examine the health of Canada’s lakes. And then of course there is the “loonie”; what more fitting way to recognize our National Bird than on our currency?

In short, it’s hard to imagine a bird that has more general appeal and recognition in Canada than the common loon.

The common loon may be as common to Canadians as the snowy winter, but its paramount uniqueness in the geographic realms of Canada, west or east, make it a perfect candidate for the nation's bird. Whether the bird's mystical haunting calls that penetrate our soul in the wild and cottage country or the loon's distinctive, striking silhouette on our waterways, it has a legacy in this place.

One way or another, Canada's waterways and remote lands are connected with the loon. Like our expansive geography and our diverse people's history, the loon is known everywhere and symbolizes our special character.

Witnessing the loon's mystical shape as it dives deep in cold, clear water or watching its long, noisy takeoff, defeating gravity, or it's graceful flight around and around a lake, this waterfowl reminds Canadians of grace, effort and imagination.

The common loon isn't so much common as it is uniquely representative of our character. The loon is part of our historic culture, our national mythologies and our environmental duty. The common loon is in our national consciousness.

- Al Smith, Kelowna, B.C.

The cry of the loon on Any body of water symbolizes Canada. Every corner of Canada is familiar with the common loon. What is more haunting than the cry of a loon?

Iconic sound heard across all lakes in Canada.
Wonderful Aboriginal story to go with why the loon has white spots.

It is the essence of Canada - it is ancient and gracious and wise and peaceful. And it is beautiful and its call speaks to all of us.

The first think came to my mind because of the loonies...

I like loons

Its beautiful markings and haunting call conjures up images of the the great Canadian wilderness but also makes this bird easily recognized. The loon's Native Canadian symbolism of harmony, peace, generosity are also strong Canadian values.

Its beautiful markings and haunting call conjures up images of the the great Canadian wilderness but also makes this bird easily recognized. The loon's Native Canadian symbolism of harmony, peace, generosity are also strong Canadian values.

I'd be 'loonie' not to vote for it. LOL

The call of the loon is the sound of the north. Hearing their call makes reminds me of nights at the cabin or fishing trips. They're beautiful birds, graceful and powerful in the water. They work in teams to hunt fish in many of the pristine lakes Canada has to offer.

I'd not seen the loon flying high overhead before until last weekend at Bird Lake in Nopoming Park. Had seen them many times all my life but only flying low above the water. There were groups flying overhead all weekend. What a surprising thing to see. Also was close by when a large loon came up out of the water under a group of Merganzers to scare them to come onto the shore. So large in contrast. The loons certainly marked my experience of that weekend.

When you listen to the loon, this is the sound of Canada.

When you listen to the loon, this is the sound of Canada.

I have wonderful memories of the loons and their calls while I was with a small group canoeing the Bowron Lake Chain in BC in 1990. Then when my husband & I lived aboard our boat in a marina on Quadra Is. BC.between 2007 to 2013 we saw ten regularly in our watery neighbourhood. They are, without a doubt, my husband 7 my first choice as Canada's national bird.

Sincerely,
Diane Yusko-Filelding

I like the loon.

We enjoy the loons at our cottage lake up the Gatineau. I love the haunting sounds of their cry.

wouldn't be summer without the call of the loon on lakes across the country!

Echoes down the lake
and later, close alongside
six loons conversing

The loon is always what I imagined as a Canadian bird. The sound of a loon is so peaceful.

An iconic Canadian scene: a quiet lake surrounded by pristine forest. A solitary loon makes it's beautiful call then dives into the water. Canada's bird.

A natural choice.

The loon's haunting night cry echoes around lakes big and small. The First Nations legend of the bird's distinctive black and white colouring is told and illustrated in the beautiful "Loon's Necklace" by the National Film Board.

The Loon is a marvellous choice for our national bird because it has a unique and unforgettable song, and appearance. It is present on our oceans, and on our lakes and familiar to most people who get outdoors near the water.

The Loon is a marvellous choice for our national bird because it has a unique and unforgettable song, and appearance. It is present on our oceans, and on our lakes and familiar to most people who get outdoors near the water.

My family is a camping family. Every summer we pack up and go up north to spend two weeks in Algonquin Provincial Park. Nothing says "Canadian Summer" more than hearing the song of the loon echoing off the lakes and through the trees.

love their call, and elusiveness.

The Loon is an iconic canadian bird, it has been on the one dollar coin (even nicknamed the LOONie) since 1987 and is almost worldwide known. "In some Northwest Coast tribes, loons are symbols of harmony, generosity, and peace. In some Algonquian tribes of the northeast, loons are regarded as divine messengers." (http://www.native-languages.org/legends-loon.htm)
Canadians are stereotyped as generous and kind (peacefu), and stereotypes start with some truth. I am a proud Canadian and I would be just as proud to say our national bird is the loon!

Canada is a country of lakes and the loon is a bird of lakes. It is beautiful and easily recognizable in its appearance as well as its call. It is quite a unique waterfowl. And it is on our dollar coin.

The common loon is so emblematic of our natural areas, that are so typical of much of Canada, it should be recognized as our national bird.

So many beautiful options! However the common loon holds a special significance to most Canadians. It is easily recognizable and stunningly beautiful. Perhaps more iconic is the sound of the loon, its northern lament, such a gentle call and haunting voice.

Go loon go!

For our 50th wedding anniversary we went to a little cottage on Twelve Mile Lake near Minden Ontario and while swimming just 20 - 30 feet off the dock a loon came up from under the water within about 10 feet of me and we swam together for a while.............the bird was not one bit frightened of me and it was an amazing experience..........they are beautiful birds and well deserve to be our National bird.

I like the loon

There is something about the distinct call of the Loon is uniquely Canadian.

With the Loon already enshrined upon the Dollar Coin "Loonie", it might seem like the obvious choice, certainly as far as familiarity is concerned.... but amongst the Birds that populate this great Nation, nothing, in my opinion, captures the spirit like the Loon. Its haunting, doleful, almost reticent call cries out for companionship and its need to be social. In the quiet darkness of Cork Lake, I listened for almost 2 hours as a loon cried out in the night. After nearly 90 mins, a second loon came into the isolated lake and the dialogue began in earnest. I remember thinking.... There's nothing more Canadian than this! The end of August, being up in Algonquin Park lying on a rock at the end of Cork Lake with nothing but stars above, glassy water in front of me, and the hauntingly beautiful call of a Loon. Its echo across the Lake brought memories of my travels across Canada in a blinding flash. There's nothing like the Loon and there's nothing like Canada!

I love the loon. To hear its call across the lake. There is nothing like it. It is beautiful.

The Loon is on our Dollar. Nobody asked me if it could or should be but there it is. Therefore, we need to live up to the Loonie that was forced upon us. More like the regret of most people who get a tattoo.

Given a choice, I would vote for the common Seagull as it seems the most universally available contributor to my vehicles.

TYVM.

The loon, like the group of seven is emblematic of the Canadian wilderness,its plaintive cry defines the sense of solitary one can feel in the vast expanse of our wonderful country.

The common loon's voice can be heard all across the country. It is beautiful and haunting.

The sight and sound of the loon is a typical and familiar Canadian and northern experience. Also, its range is all across Canada.

In a Kayak on Lake Ouimet near Mont Tremblant my daughter and I heard the call of the loon.

Drawn to the sound of this elusive Canadian icon we paddled toward the haunting call and soon spotted a pair of loons surfacing near our boats.

We spent a peaceful and exciting half an hour sharing the lake with the pair as they swam with us and under our boats calling to us and laughing.

It was an unforgettable and special experience for father and daughter that no other bird could have provided.

The lovely call of the loon on a lake at dusk has always been something I have loved. To me they are a part of Canada's outdoors.

I have worked across Canada as a geologist. Every little lake seems to have a loon. They sound and act mysterious but they are friendly and curious. They will always swim to us and visit our camp. They are fearless. One time we landed our helicopter near the nest and the male was ready to fight our noisy machine, sticking out his neck and flapping his wings.

Aside from the fact that the loon is found on our currency, the call of the loon makes me think of the beauty of Canada and it wildlife.

Well, it was picked for our currency, much like the goose for the centennial dollar. Bur currency wise it is better known now.

It also has a unique haunting call that I grew up imitating.

What could be more Canadian than the hauntingly beautiful call of the Common Loon? It IS Canada!

The Loon is on our Dollar. Nobody asked me if it could or should be but there it is. Therefore, we need to live up to the Loonie that was forced upon us. More like the regret of most people who get a tattoo.

Given a choice, I would vote for the common Seagull as it seems the most universally available contributor to my vehicles.

TYVM.

What could be more Canadian than the hauntingly beautiful call of the Common Loon? It IS Canada!

For the past 12 years I have been privileged to fall asleep and wake up to the haunting call of the loons on our bay. I listen and wait for the answer from somewhere across the bay or the lake behind the house, wondering what the call means. Is a loon lost, in distress or simply calling out for companionship. I sit on the dock at dusk taking hundreds of photos, only to have one or two that can be printed to be shared with my friends in a birthday or thank you card. I watch as the parents introduce the young to a loon's daily ritual of diving for food, preening their magnificent feathers, or learning to fly as they lumber down the runway of lake water for a graceful takeoff. I stop to listen to the loon's call, soothing yet so mysterious. And then late fall arrives and the rafting ritual begins - winter is almost upon us. I have been mesmerized by the flight of 20 - 30 loons as they take off from a partially frozen bay to head to warmer climates. During the winter months I am comforted by music interspersed with the call of the loon, a gentle reminder that these beautiful silhouettes of black and white will once again grace the waters of our bay. Life is good, the loons are back, the cycle of nature continues.

Quintessential representative of Canadian wilderness and natural areas - both in terms of its call and its image. Ubiquitous across Canada.

I VOTE FOR THE MAJESTIC LOON. our family always vacationed here somewhere around muskoka lakes area, my brother has a cottage here on a lovely smaller lake Rosseau way and now living here yr round I look forward to the call of the loon either over at the cottage or around my area.... They seem to be in decline on the bigger lakes as they are becoming so busy with boat traffic it is my fervent hope they are her efor my grandchildren.... susan

The sound of the loon is what I look for every summer when I head out to the cottage. I think the loon call is a truly Canadian sound and the loon should be our national bird

The sound of the loon is what I look for every summer when I head out to the cottage. I think the loon call is a truly Canadian sound and the loon should be our national bird

One of the things that I love the most about our family cottage in the Haliburton Highlands is the haunting yet beautiful call of the Loon. Whenever I hear it, and happily it is often, it is magical and joyous. I also feel a deep connection to Canada that is beyond a simple pride of nation. It somehow seems fitting to official connect these the two!
Go Loon!
Karen McQuade

I have enjoyed seeing and listening to the Common Loon since I first went to my family's cottage in the early forties.

Their calls at night have a special note and characteristic - eerie but beautiful. Their distress calls, when danger approaches, have an almost frightening tone that surely must be most important to other loons in the same area.

Seeing a loon pop up onto the surface of the lake is quite beautiful. They seem to be able distance themselves from even the most aggressive boat driver and other dangers.

The length of time that they can stay under water is amazing and probably longer than any other water fowl.

The Common Loon is by far my favourite bird with its many special characteristics and habits - second to no other bird.

Sincerely
Bill Irwin

"Keep being a voice crying in the wilderness"

In addition to being a bird that occupies every corner of the country and a startling ly beautiful bird in flight and in the water with a haunting call, it is also one of the longest surviving special of birds - its been with us for a very, very long time.

We have a cabin on kootenay lake in BC and have watched the loon population decline and hope over the coming years their population increases. we love their beautiful sound it is so unique! Would be proud to have this our national bird!

I can't think of anything more Canadian than the Loon.

During the month of August, I took my family through the Rocky Mountains and into the interior of BC. We stayed at Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park for a night, and I'll never forget the haunting call of the Loons at dusk. One would utter a warbling call across the dark water, and another, on the far side, would answer with its own ghostly music. My children were afraid, but I assured them it was a beautiful animal that would never harm them. Loons may seem like ordinary birds, but when you hear their calling in the middle of the night, you will realize your mistake.

Nothing is so Canadian as the sound of the loon. The Canada goose makes a pest of himself. The snowy owl is rarely seen. Here's to the Loonie.

The loon is pictured on our currency - that says it all!

Nothing like the sound of a loon while sitting in a canoe on a Canadian lake in the early morning.

Once you have heard the loon's call from across a wilderness lake, you will never forget it. Simply close your eyes and you will hear it again - clearly.

As a Canadian born and raised man, the sound of the Common Loon was the most peaceful sound I've ever known while growing up. No matter what was going on in my life at the time, instance Peace was triggered when I heard loons. Not unlike a shot of dopamine. My memories circle mostly around the Ottawa river in Sealy's Bay, where the loons would be heard daily. Nobody would speak yet we were all unified, listening and enjoying their sounds.

I think the common loon represents Canadian culture. I believe many of us can identify the call of a loon when outdoors navigating our waterways. The loon can be found on our Canadian currency. Canadians have labelled our dollar coin the loonie. This would probably seem odd to someone visiting our country but but not to a Canadian resident;it just fits. Voting for the common loon as Canada national bird makes perfect sense.

(: The loon! Le huard! :)

We have had a couple on Ten Mile lake that we have watched raise their babies, they are so cool to watch love them

The Loon is the iconic voice of Canada's wilderness. It's yodelling call immediately invokes the vast hinterland of Canada outside the cities. The Common Loon mates for life. They return to their lake to nest as soon as enough ice has melted. They are devoted parents, teaching their young to fish and staying with them until they have grown to young adults, and able to migrate south on their own.

The sound of our true and vibrant north. In the early dawn as mist rises from the waters, the solitary sound of the loon. This brings to me, everything that is great about this vast and beautiful, yet challenging land of ours.

WE HAVE THE LOON ON THE MONEY SO LET'S PROCLAIM IT OUTRIGHT

We have enjoyed Ontario's beautiful lakes, rivers and interior campsites for many years and the sight and sound of the loon is an integral part of the experience.

We have enjoyed Ontario's beautiful lakes, rivers and interior campsites for many years and the sight and sound of the loon is an integral part of the experience.

The Common Loon is a magical bird. There is nothing that reflects our northerness better than its song, its playfulness - scooting round our lakes - and toughness to survive well in the harsh climate. I once was at our cottage playing Glenn Gould's interpretation of Bach's Goldberg Variations and intermittently hearing the loons' calls. It was magical. I cannot think of another bird that could come even close to this.

It's dusk. The lake is calm. I hear the call. I'm so happy to be home.

The sound of the loon is very soothing at the end of the day.

I have been lucky enough to travel from the west coast to the east...BC to Newfoundland, and to the north. There is nothing like hearing the cry of the loon to instantly connect you to home. It is one of those "chains" that binds Canada together. In my opinion, the Common Loon is the most suitable answer to the question "What is Canada's national bird?"

What is more haunting than the sound of a loon on an Ontario lake on a beautiful summer afternoon. What is more endearing than the sight of a baby loon nestled on its mother's back. What is more striking than the spreading wings of this magnificent black and white creature as it prepares to take flight. What harkens to our summer memories more than the reverberating cry of the loon as it calls to its mate across shimmering lake.
What speaks of Canadian summer more than the loon. No other creature for me!

a loon call over a lake at twilight - a sound as Canadian as possible under the circumstances

I was a child the first time I heard the haunting cry of a loon. I remember still, the goose bumps that shivered their way up my bare legs and down both my arms. I did not want to go inside. I wanted; no I needed to stay and listen, again, for that unforgettable call.
Through the years, I have been lucky to hear the tremolo, and a few times, I have been blessed with seeing the loons swimming.
Over fifty years later, when I'm near water, I still wait with great anticipation, hoping to hear one more time, the call of the loon.

I love the loons on Cole lake, they sound so wonderful. I love the way they stick together as a family looking after their young. They are part of the Canadian fabric and deserve to be our National Bird.

The soundtrack to lazy evenings in cottage country. The definition of at peace and harmony with nature. We're a giant country that's largely untamed. How many thousands of lakes does this one bird's call echo across any summer evening? It's simply the definition of the Canadian wilderness.

I think the Loon represents Canada well. As Canadians many of us love the outdoors and spending time in nature. There is no more hauntingly beautiful sound than the call of a Loon or watching one dive under the water on a calm, clear lake. Whether you are canoeing in the back country of Algonquin park or sitting on a cottage deck hearing the call of a Loon unites us.

The loon call is unique and seems distinctly Canadian.

There is no sound on a summer evening that is equally haunting and beautiful then that of the loon. The call of that bird evokes crystal clear lakes, towering pine trees and campfire glow. Whether you hear it as a recording on the beginning of The Tragically Hip's song Wheat Kings, or echoing off an pristine Algonquin lake, that distinct call will always be synonymous with Canadian summers.

The ancient call of the loon over a misty lake early morn anywhere in Canada evokes timeless tales of this beautiful country. Our first peoples were welcomed by this elder spirit, as were the waves of settlers who came to make Canada "our home". The haunting loon voices a spiritual connection to this bountiful and generous. In jest we named our dollar coin the"loonie", but it's no small change for us. We love our loonie, and the image depicted on it. It's already a part of our heritage.

Love the loon. Need to emphasize protecting their habitat.

The ancient call of the loon over a misty lake early morn anywhere in Canada evokes timeless tales of this beautiful country. Our first peoples were welcomed by this elder spirit, as were the waves of settlers who came to make Canada "our home". The haunting loon voices a spiritual connection to this bountiful and generous. In jest we named our dollar coin the"loonie", but it's no small change for us. We love our loonie, and the image depicted on it. It's already a part of our heritage.

A hauntingly beautiful bird found across Canada.

The haunting call in the middle of a still summers eve is something no one will ever forget.

Why not its on the loonie

There is nothing more beautiful than the call of the loon. Canadians from coast to coast can relate to the sound. It's unifying in its loneliness.

It is, simply, the most beautiful bird in the country. Nothing comes close to equaling the mesmeric, haunting call of a loon. It symbolizes so much of what is good in our country: fresh water lakes, forested lands, and quiet, unbroken spaces where wildlife can flourish.

This bird can be found in every province and belonging to water which is a great part of our country.They have a lovely call that can be heard at a very long distance.

I just remember to cry of the loon on a warm Ontario lake around sunset. typically a Canadian memory

I'm a subscriber already.

I'm originally from Northern Ontario and nothing signifies Canada more to me than hearing a loon on a misty river in the morning.

i was torn between the magnificent Snowy Owl and the Common Loon i have selected the Common Loon because it represents all Canadians It is beautiful,industrious,loyal,smart and carries itself with dignity it calls to every person and leaves an indelible mark on each soul. Every individual who hears the cry of the Common Loon is never the same.
The markings of the loon are as distinctive as its cry. The image of the mother loon carrying its tiny chicks on its back is an image of the greatest of parenting.
Who knew the Common Loon was not our national bird;in my mini survey of 2518 /25thought it was the Common Loon and the others thought it was the Canada Goose except one who thought it was the Ootpik

i was torn between the magnificent Snowy Owl and the Common Loon i have selected the Common Loon because it represents all Canadians It is beautiful,industrious,loyal,smart and carries itself with dignity it calls to every person and leaves an indelible mark on each soul. Every individual who hears the cry of the Common Loon is never the same.
The markings of the loon are as distinctive as its cry. The image of the mother loon carrying its tiny chicks on its back is an image of the greatest of parenting.
Who knew the Common Loon was not our national bird;in my mini survey of 2518 /25thought it was the Common Loon and the others thought it was the Canada Goose except one who thought it was the Ootpik

As long as it isn't the Canada Goose. We need open season on them.

I will never forget the first time I was in the wilderness at night and heard the haunting call of a loon. Even now in adulthood, I don't feel like I'm in the Canadian wilderness unless I hear a loon at night.

I had never encountered the loon until I emigrated to Canada. I think it's beautiful and I just love it's song.

The Loon lives in our waterways, and I think our early explorers were as familiar with this bird as we now are, through our currency. The bird is uniquely Canadian, as 95% of the world's loons are here. They are absolutely beautiful, and their haunting call is renowned. They are a perfect symbol for our national bird.

When I was a child, my family spent a lot of time out at my grandparents cottage on Lake Shebandowan, just west of Thunder Bay Ontario. There were many loons on the lake especially in the morning. Listening to their shrill call in the mornings is a sound I will never forget. It is the sound of a Canadian morning.

In my younger days portaging between lakes in Northern BC, hearing the call of the loon was a kiss from Canada, music to the ear.

What Canadian has not sat near a lake and not heard the call?

The Loon has such an impact on many Canadians lives in terms of the feelings and memories that the Loon and it's call evoke in all who are familiar. As do many Canadians, we enjoy the the most incredibly wilderness this planet has to offer. For many, the loons are our companions while we are on the water, they chase schools of fish beneath our boats, they let us know we are not alone under a star filled night. It's a part of what visitors to this country imagine Canada and the Canadian life style to be.
Although many different birds mean so much to all of us, I don't think any other Bird means as much to the majority of Canadians as the Common Loon.

A memory from my childhood at summer camp

the Common Loon and it's call bring back amazing memories of wonderful summers at the lake. it is a great representation of Canada!

I hear the word and my brain translates it to the sound of my Canada.

Recognizable sound coast to coast :)

There is no more thrilling sound than to hear a loon out on a lake at night.

Since the loon is already adorning our $1 coin, it makes sense to have it be our national bird.

There is not a sound in Canada that evokes a stronger sense of the pristine beauty and serenity of our wildland, than the sound of the common Loon.

Whether listening to their evening calls on an otherwise silent evening, or waking up to this incredibly relaxing sound emanating from the fog covered remote lake, the sound of the loon amplifies the intense beauty of our country.

Its a song of the heart

The most peaceful sound in this country is the call of the loon.

love da loon

There is no sound to me that is so quintessentially Canadian than the call of a loon on a lake whether it be in Cottage Country or in a remote area of the country. Loons can be found from coast to coast and are truly a symbol of the beauty of our wilderness.

Love what you have done

The loon is a true wonder, its call surely speaking to the soul of all Canadians.

It's in our loonies, why else!

To hear the sound of a loon is to feel Canadian;. That primal sound reminds us of our close connection with Nature, and the millions of square miles of it that make up this beautiful country. My idea of bliss would be to spend time by the water where I could hear the call and " laugh" of the loons.

The loon is such a beautiful waterfowl. Hearing the warbling sound of the loon is so eerie but yet one of the neatest sounds you will ever hear. Such a majestic bird!!!

I love loons. I used to go camping with Grandad as a kid and he had a few loon friends who lived in the lake. They got used to my Grandad and seemed to not mind us, and would come over to us and swim around us in our canoes or near the docks, unusual for a usually shy bird. I loved their haunting cries. It used to give me chills but now i find it soothing. My Grandad has since passed away and i haven't returned to the camp by the lake in over 10 years. I think of him whenever I hear a loon though. It's a sweet and bitter feeling when I do. My grandma always said he'd come back as a beaver but I think he'd come back as a loon.

On an unrelated note, whenever talk to people from other countries, they all think the loon is our national bird already cause of the loonie, so it would make sense to keep it that way. But really i just really like loons.

I remember the call of this bird when camping with my family as a little girl. I actually thought it already was our National Bird (oops). Although I suppose many city dwellers might not have ever heard its call, if they ever do they will never forget it. It is, indeed, the sound of big spaces, fresh air, and Canadian nature at its calming best.

Basically because it's common throughout the nation, everyone recognizes its call and if it's good enough to be put on our currency then it's good enough to be our national bird.

Hands down, the loon is the most hauntingly beautiful, iconic, beloved bird in this country.

Not found in residential areas. Represents the "backwoods pristine outdoors" that Canada is. Canada goose is not this and hence my vote.

Any time I hear the haunting call of the loon I know I!m home....in Canada.JOB.AAA

I think the Common Loon should be our bird . I love just spending time watching this beautiful bird. When they are about to take flight or when the Loon is just floating on a pond with her baby on her back. Always looking so majestic.

My reason is very simple. They are beautiful to look at, watch and have an absolutely stunning call. I could listen to them 24/7. They are a very territorial bird and are very protective of their own.

The most beautiful bird around Canada

Loons usually work alone as they go about their day seeking for a fine fresh fish to eat for dinner. They have a reputation of being looney. They are on the dollar coin. Loons have a haunting call and are present in First Nation lore. They are not aggressive birds like hawks and eagles. They don't poop everywhere and get sucked into jet engines like their larger cousins the Canada Goose. Unlike chickadees, they are not looking for a handout of free seed. I would feel very comfortable having a loon representing our fair nation.

"Found in every province and territory in the country, the Common Loon is truly a Canadian animal"
The loon calls are so haunting and so symbolic of Canada's wild areas.
The loon is a reminder of what we can lose if we aren't defending wilderness, oceans, lakes, rivers, diversity and habitats.

The Loon is for me the essence of Algonquin Park and Northern Ontario.

Go Loon Go!!

For you J!

Loons are found throughout Canada. It doesn't matter if you are on land or sea, their mournful call echoing across the lakes is known and loved by everyone. They should be Canada's National Bird.

I have seen many different birds and have photographed them from the magnificent Puffins of Newfoundland to the amazing Bald Eagles right at my front door. We live in a wonderful place just north of Kingston, On. where looking out at the lake is a photographic dream. I have to say the Common Loon is a very social bird which makes it very special. Many times being out in our boat we have been surrounded by several of them, just enjoying the music we are playing. Our daughter and her family come from Ottawa with their beautiful ful and playful Golden Doodle. Many of my pictures are her frolicing with the loons.. My daughter has to sometimes close the bedroom window so the Loons don't wake her up so ,early in the morning. How nice is that! Please put me down for theLoons, they have to win. Happy at the Lake!

It makes sense, the loon is already on our money.

Il s'agit d'une espèce qui existe principalement au Canada. Son cri est bien connu et apprécié des amateurs de plein air partout au Canada. Finalement, on ne peut ignorer sa présence sur les pièces d'un dollar et, par conséquent, dans les poches de tous les Canadiens.

there is nothing more beautiful or comforting to be sitting out by the lake first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee than to hear the loons calling to each other. Or to see the female loon with her babies floating by close to the shoreline.

This is not so much an essay as a list of attributes, factoids and personal impressions:

* The voice and severe beauty of the loon permeate the best experiences of my life. Most memorable to me is the clear echo of their flying song heard in the crisp moonlit night of a northern summer. The essence of forest, rocky lakes and loons are indelibly imprinted on my soul.

* Indigenous people across Canada have immortalized the loon in legend and lore. Stories featuring loons occur in the oral traditions of Inuit, Mi'kmaq, Algonquian, Anishinabe, Cree, Lakota, Tsimshian and so on. Check it out!

*As many voters have already said, the Common Loon can be found in every province and territory; it is a compelling, beautiful and magical icon of the boreal forest (the largest Canadian ecological zone).

* Never mind that many loons migrate south in winter; they breed almost exclusively in Canada and their winter range is determined more by access to open water than balmy temperatures; they winter up and down the east and west coasts of North Amerca - that's right, a loon can winter in Newfoundland or Alaska just as easily in warm southern waters.

* As others have mentioned, loon behaviour is marked by discreet, low-key, no nonsense courting; by firm attachment to nesting sites known since they first hatched; by fierce and deadly defense of their territories, nests and young; by shared parenting duties and strategic choice of those places most safe for their chicks to begin life.

* The wellbeing of loons is inseparable from the wellbeing of lakes and forests. What threatens them also constitute threats to us - environmental pollution, unseasonal floods, and increasing industrial and recreational development around boreal rivers and lakes. Loons need clean, clear water and harmonious surroundings in order to flourish on this earth - so do human lives and spirits. We have a well proven legacy given to us by the canoe, rather than with jet skis and motorboats.

* According to the LiveScience website, the Common Loon may lose more than half its summer range and three quarter of its winter range by the year 2080 due to global warming (citing a climate model created by the Audubon Society). So, what's good for the loon is also good for us.

* Finally, I think we can get past the fact that Ontario already claims the loon as their provincial bird. As Canadians, most of us know how to share.

Go loon!

It is what represents us: mysterious, independent and beautiful!

I have the most wonderful memories growing up in northern Saskatchewan and listening to the haunting,mournful cry of the amazing loon! Our parents always taught us to respect the natural world around us which we all did.We were always mesmerized when we would hear the call of the loons on the lake.All six of us children will never forget those years of wonderment and simplicity when the cry of the loon on a quiet peaceful lake was a joy to behold!

Without a doubt,I truly believe,with all my heart that the LOON deserves to be our National Bird !

This iconic bird signifies summer in Canada. It signifies the north, the wilderness and the beauty of Canada. It's call is haunting and memorable.
This should be our national bird .

The Common Loon can be found right across Canada. Whether it's in the far north or on southern, eastern or western lakes. Its name is shared with our dollar coin and it's voice is distinguishable to nothing else.

Love the songs, the beauty of the bird and the quiet tranquility when you watch it in the water

I have spent many a night listening to loons calling. They are more informative than the media, the oil companies and the politicicians. They are the voice of Canada.

Haunting sound they make on a beautiful sunset on the lake at night.

The best bird in the world!

Iconic Canadian bird-a true favourite in cottage country!

We have had a cottage on Belmont Lake for almost 60 years now and every year without fail whenever anyone spots a Loon on the lake we all stop for a moment and watch, a little mezmerized. It seems like the same family of Loons keeps coming back to our end of the lake year after year. For us, the Loon represents Canada as a universal symbol with a classic clean look and stealthy, efficient movements above and below the water. One of natures best! It will make a spectacular National Bird for Canada.

Thanks!
Bob Little

I spend my summers at the lake and have listened to the loons for fifty plus years. Their call is distinctive, echoing off rocky cliffs and skimming over the water. I never tire of listening to them call each other from one bay to the next. I think they are a beautiful bird and would love to have them named as Canada's national bird.

There is nothing more haunting or soothing than the call of the loon in the early evening or morning hours. I have been listening to that sound since I was a little girl spending overnights at the cottage in northern Ontario. I also loved the Natives' story of how the loon got it's necklace - it was one of my favourites. The loon has long been around in the lore of Canadian history and in the carvings of the artists. I think it deserves a more prominent place in our country. .

The haunting sound of the loon is, for me, associated with summer at our northern Saskatchewan lakes. I know it's the national bird of Ontario. It's also, significantly, the adopted name of our one dollar coin, the "loonie". It seems fitting that it would be our national bird. I'm not sure if it's found in all provinces. If so, that would make it an ideal candidate.

I might have chosen the Canada Goose, but I've seen way too much annoying goose poop on the beach at our prairie lake.

I would also like to choose the Meadowlark, the bird whose song I know best. Hearing it triggers so many happy childhood memories on our Saskatchewan farm. But I don't think it's a common bird in some other parts of Canada.

So, for the above reasons, I'm choosing the common Loon.

The loon is one of the most recognized birds in Canada from coast to coast. Their sound and beauty brings peace and tranquility.

We live on a beautiful lake close to Kingston, On. Our lake birds are spectacular. I love the sound of the loons.

My second choice is the snowy owl!

Iconic symbol and sound of Canada.

Nothing thrills me more when in the woods than to hear a loon's call echo off the hillsides.

The sound of a loon represents tranquility, peace and a clean environment which we should all aim and struggle to attain. It is Canada's voice.

The common loon has always been on the "Loonie" $1 coin. Since I could remember. The loon should be named Canada's National Bird!

The Loon is the perfect choice. Nothing like sleeping out doors near a lake and listening to his/her song.
The loon is on our 1 dollar coins and I feel is Canada's Bird.

The loon has such a distinct call, it's on our loonie & when camping it adds to the serenity & that peaceful feeling

Mysterious, peaceful birds from the canadian wilderness. Typically canadian!

The plaintiff call on a glassy moonlit lake
Lying quietly in the darkness before we sleep...
The echoes off the hills are calming
From sleep we awake to the splashing laughter
as they play. At night.
Morning mist is untouched as they dance yet still
A quick splash and they're gone
Beneath perfection before the morning breeze.
The sun breaks upon the trees from afar
The Loons are with us.

Allan Goddard

Many birds come to mind,but none more so than the loon.

I love the sound of the common loon. Lakes trees loons campfires and the sound of the common loon. That's Canada

The Common Loon is almost a mythical bird. But it is indeed REAL. Its calls and mores are emblematic of Canada. It not only is a symbol of wilderness, but it has adapted to living in proximity to many of us. Hearing and seeing a loon stirs such feelings of awe, admiration and pride. Its call moves me like no other bird.

There is no bird call that reminds me more of the beautiful nation I call home and am privileged to freely explore in a canoe :-)

The call of the loon.....nothing more Canadian! They epitomize Canada like no other bird can. ....hauntingly beautiful.

Hard decision. However, the common loon is found in pretty well all provinces, is a beautiful bird, and I think is a good candidate for national bird. What other bird accompanies campers dreams as they fall asleep under the stars on shores of Canadian waters.

Lions are iconic and special. A part of our summer life. They deserve tone our national bird

The haunting sound of a loon is something most Canadians know - even if they haven't heard it in person. However, more than a favourite bird, the loon has also taken a place in the national mythology - providing the name for one of the most common coins most of us have in our pockets. We joke about "loonies" and measure our desires in "loonies." From the lonely sound of a bird in the bush to the jingle of loonies in our pockets - not to mention that our politics are pretty loony, the loon deserves to be our national bird - if for no other reason that it has become one of the most description words in Canadian English....

A lake. Midsummer. Cool evening. A loon's lonely call. This is Canada. Land I love.

Loons are beautiful, strong, and majestic. Most Canadians have seen a Loon or heard its haunting call across the water.

The common loon is the one bird that represents to me the vast wilderness of Canada and why I love this country. My family would listen for the loon's call in the evening when we camped near the lakes and streams not far from our country home. These memorable experiences of hiking, camping, fishing and gathering around the camp fire included the sound of the loon, which reminded us of how grateful we were to enjoy the beautiful nature and scenery that surrounded us.

It is Canada's natural landscape that enables us to be connected to the land, the water and the natural wildlife, including the common loon, so often found on the abundant remote lakes in this beautiful country.

The loon is a lovely bird - always a joy to hear its voice.

Just saw a pair of loons with their young one on the lake by Jasper Park Lodge. It was a delight to watch the parents try to get the young loon to dive!

Because there are so many cool sounding loons on Gull Lake

It's a tough call (Canada goose makes sense too, and my personal favourite bird is the common raven) but the call of the loon just seems so quintessentially Canadian. How, really, could any other bird match that?

Once you have heard a loon and how people just stop talking in mid sentence when they hear it and how everyone stops to listen.....there is no other choice. There isn't another bird whose call can make everything around it stop and who commands people to just listen.

Canada is known for our beautiful outdoors and vast landscapes. No matter where you go to enjoy this, if there is a body of water there is a Loon; The soundtrack to camping, hiking and adventure. Spending time outdoors as a child memories are fulled with the background song of the Loon. This by far is the best choice to represent our National Bird.

I love the song of the loon and they are beautiful I understand they mate for life and both parents care for the young

How can you not be moved by their incredible call?!

The common loon is our reminder of what the wilderness can be if we let it. It is primitive, having lived in Canada far longer than humans. Its eye-catching plumage and beautiful calls draw us back to peaceful lakes year after year.

I am a transplant to the US after marriage to a MN girl. We lived on Rainy Lake ON with Canada to the north and the US to the south. Sitting on the dock at night or in the boat on the water, just when the sun starts to touch the surface at night the singing of the loons would start. A pure, clean and world renowned song of a majestic bird. It's calm grace, cooperative relationship with its neighboring waterfowl and other wild life, its steadfast defense of its young and peaceful demenor I think represents who we would like to be and strive to achieve. It's not bold or brash but will be heard when needed and recognised immediately for what it is. That's why I vote for the common but truly spectacular loon

I had to vote for the Common Loon as it so accurately describes all levels of government in this fine country. From federal to municipal there are plenty of loons ;)

We love to canoe all our beautiful northern Lakes. When we get on the lake the first thing we listen and look for is the loons on the lake. Every lake seems to have its own family of loons. Love the Snowy Owl but the common Loon is everywhere across the country.

I have grown up in Northern and wild places. From the time I was a child, I loved the call of the loon. As an adult, I began to realize that I would never hear that cry in an urbanized area, or a lake that had become too "polluted with people and their noisy boats.
I am happy to say that I have adopted the loon's philosophy.... If the loons don't live in an area, neither do I.
Nelson BC is on Kootenay lake which is nearly 90 miles long, and YES, on the lake itself, we DO hear the loon cry occasionally, and if we are lucky, we can see them dive, and in the spring teach their youngsters to dive, too.
I see the LOON as a wonderful emblem for Canada, a place that I hope never becomes "too crowded for loons to live in peace".

It is on our loony and has been a familiar bird to a majority of Canadians - it already is Canada's signature.

The Common Loon is such a graceful bird, I believe represents
Ontario in style. My hubby and I love to watch them as they
swim around, even with their young.

The common loon is "common" only in so far as being nationally known, and visible throughout Canada, not mention the "Loonie". However, in my opinion, it is far from common. Beautiful in colour with its black and white colouration and unique "necklace". Graceful on the waters of most Canadian lakes, swimming along alone, with family or in the fall gathering, but comical they are during take off for flight. The calls of the loon are distinctive and haunting and a gentle reminder of their presence. Keeping themselves unto themselves, they neither soil the shoreline nor the air with cacophonous sound. Steeped in our native culture, they present themselves with a perfect symbol of our country, true north, strong and free.

The iconic call of the loon on a solitary lake with the mist rising at sunrise is my favourite Canadian memory.

the call of the loon epitomizes Canada's northern solitude

The common loon is a beautiful bird!

We always wait in the spring to see the loons land on the lake behind us. This year we saw three. We didn't see any chicks this year as in
other years when we would see 3 or 4 and at least 2 would be successfully reared.

It's a beautiful bird that's more magnificent (and more polite) than a Canadian Goose. Also, we have "Looney" as our one dollar currency - it's already a part of our everyday Canadian speak, let's set a place aside for the Loon as our official bird!

The common LOON is already Canada's choice - think Loonies and Toonies
Loons live by wooded lakes, coastal waters and tundra ponds - Canada' s geography
Loons have a red eye showing strength and integrity
Loons defend their young and territotory if threatened - so do Canadians
The loon call is unique, causing Canadians and their world to listen and wonder
Loon colouring is dramatic and both sexes share their colouring and their tasks
Loons mate for life and return home showing consistency and trust
Loons provide the Canadian art world wonderful opportunities to carve and colour their sleek, elegant form
Canadians treasure and love LOONS - they are our natural national bird!

I feel that The Loon should be Canada's National bird as it is seen in most lakes amongst all Provinces of Canada. Their sound is exquisite and largely known by most Canadians. Anyone that has camped and heard a Loon call in the wilderness will not soon forget their haunting mystical sound.....I know that I feel privileged any time I'm lucky enough to hear the wonderful Loon.

Quintessentially Canadian in call and aspect.

Tremolo

The call of the Loon is an iconic note of summer .

THE CALL OF THE LOON IS WHAT WE HEAR WHEN WE ESCAPE THE URBAN CONFINES IN CANADA AND VISIT AREAS OF WOOD AND WATER. TWO THINGS OUR COUNTRY IS KNOWN FOR AROUND THE WORLD. THE LOON'S CALL IS THE ESSENCE OF THE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE AWAY FROM THE CITIES IN CANADA. IT'S STRONG, DEEP AND PURPOSEFUL. IT'S ALSO BEAUTIFUL AND DRAWS OUR ATTENTION IN. MOST OFTEN WHEN WE HEAR ITS CALL, WE STOP AND APPRECIATE IT AND LOOK TO SEE THIS ELEGANT CREATURE IN ITS NATURAL HABITAT. OUR BEAUTIFUL LAKES. IT'S CANADA'S BIRD.

The common loon is on the one dollar coin why not have it be the national bird as well. It is a beautiful bird carries its young on its back. That is what I call good parenting and would be a great national bird.

Loons are unique and common to all Canada

We only get them here as they migrate and love the calming tones on our northern lakes, otherwise I'd have gone with Cardinals who are here in my region all year.

The Loon speaks to me that we are OK as long as we can hear the Loon.

Nothing speaks of the vastness and splendid loneliness of the Canadian wilderness than the distant cry of a loon.

Interesting to note that in Texas we were speaking with a Birding Guide in the Park & he told us that the loons that migrate there do not call while they are there.

My vote for the common loon. A distinct bird with a distinct call that is associated with other imagery of what is "Canadian" such as the endless fresh water lakes, paddling the waters by canoe and enjoying the great outdoors of this beautiful country. The loon adds to this natural Canadian theme.

I love the loons who mate for life and raise their young with more patience than a human. Their calls soothe us as we fall asleep. They are symbolic of life in the north.

Well, duh. We have the "loonie". 😃

Hearing the loon's warbling call travel over a still Lake captures the very essence of the Canadian wilderness, the true north strong and free. So it is the perfect choice to be our National Bird!

A bird identified with northern Canada. Nothing better than a Loon call out in the wilderness.

When camping at Kejimkujic National Park there in nothing more beautiful and eerie sounding as the numerous loon calls in the late night hours. They have various sounding calls between each other. It would be interesting to know what each means. A truly interesting Canadian bird.

How could we choose anything else? We are the loonies: our money; our bird.

Would have gone with a Canada Goose, but everyone seems to hate them.

Can't identify a Whiskey Jack, though it has its appeal.

I LOVE loons. It makes me feel "Canadian" and very proud to have this beautiful bird in our country. There is nothing like the haunting call of the loon. :)

The call of the loon is the most beautiful, haunting, thrilling sound in the great outdoors of Canada. Anyone who has ever spent time canoeing, or camping, or cottaging near a Canadian lake associates the loon's call with Canadian summers.

I live in BC and have a summer home on a small lake in Ontario. The haunting call, its social observance, calm solitude and its mentorship of their young make it a very suitable bird for all Canadians. The Common Loon is a fine example of what it is to be Canadian.

Its already on the $1 coin, so its easy. Also we are all slightly nuts/looney, so it fits.

I am surprised that the Wood Duck which is the most colourful and noble looking waterfowl in North America is not even mentioned . Please correct this .Thanks

Each summer I so look forward to a camping trip north in order to hear that haunting call. Not only is it a beautiful bird
that various stories have been written about. It's also a characteristic feature that is particular to our lovely north country.
The fact that they carry their young on their back is an endearingt trait somewhat reflective of the accommodating / caring reputation that Canadians seem to have worldwide.. I vote for the loon!

While I understand that the Loon is Ontario's bird, there is nothing as beautiful as the sound of a loon. Just thinking about the sound takes a person back to the beautiful surroundings they were in when they heard it, be it on a mist covered lake in Algonquin Park or on some woodland pond.

the peaceful sound ion a beautiful lake reminds me of what is great in this country.

The common loon is a good bird to represent the Canadian bird as the song of the loon is so recognizable it screams Canada!

I live on a lake that has many birds... loons geese ducks even eagles etc
One day we saw an eagle swoop down and try to make off with a loon! That loon fought this eagle off of itself and it's little family 😄
Bad ass.

Beautiful bird

The common loons cry is the sound of our wilderness Waking to the loon on the Winnipeg River remines my of how great the country is. The bord is such a great mother often seen floating alond with you birds on their back

35 years I've thought the loon already was our National Bird. Let's make it happen!

The common loon is found all across Canada. That is why it is my choice for our national bird.

I love the Canada Goose but the Common Loon is my ultimate favourite.

*The first sound I hear before I open my eyes before dawn is the common loon calling....
*Love the early morning dawn sitting with my coffee on my patio when the fog is rolling down the lake and the sound of the loon calling...
*Late afternoon on a overcast day paddling my kayak, floating past a loon diving for fish.

All three scenarios are why I am Choosing the Common Loon as our nations bird!

The common loon is a graceful,beautiful bird. I have always loved watching them on the lake. They are here all year round and seems like an appropriate bird for our National bird.

Come on! The loon is on our dollar coin and no one calls the coin anything but a loonie. The two dollar coin has always been called a twoonie. Only the Queen is on more coins than the loon. If the loon doesn't deserve to be our national bird, I don't know what bird does.
Thank you for this opportunity!
Sincerely,
Eva

Canada is home to thousands of species of birds, many of whom are easily recognizable and deserving, but no bird more eloquently 'speaks' for Canada like the loon. Its beautiful and haunting call instantly brings to mind the pristine wilderness, clear mountain lakes and majestic trees that Canada is deservedly famous for. The loon is undoubtedly the most Canadian of all birds.

I have so many beautiful experience camping in both Algonquin and Kilarneey Provincial Parks, paddling near them on the water, watching the mother carrying her babies on her back and listening to their haunting call. It takes me back to a precious time in my life.

You only have to sit at dusk on a quiet summer eve when the lake calms, the night shadows appear, and you are reminded of the beauty and wildness of Canada by the call of the loon. It reminds me how lucky we are to live in a place where quiet contemplation outdoors is possible. Some of my fondest memories from my childhood involve going to sleep to the call of the loon.

The first wild sound I heard as an inner city kid growing up in Toronto was during my first camping experience with the Salvation Army Summer Camp for kids. It was a Loon. Once I heard that sound at the age of 8, I never forgot it. Since that first time I have heard it a hundred times over and it still gives me that same first time thrill. As an adult I look forward to hearing it when I go hiking or camping and can't even imagine going fishing or canoeing without seeing a loon on the lake or hearing its beautiful calling sound.

I vote for the common loon.

Everyone has heard their haunting cry. Very distinctive,beautiful bird.

I grew up in Northern Ontario and spent my summers at the family cottage. There were always loons on our lake and always was fascinated at the different sounds of the call of the loon. Sometimes the call was sad and mournful sounding. Other calls were long and cheerful as if they were seeking out other loons and wanted to give a welcoming cheer.

Hearing a loon on one of our lakes, rivers or oceans immediately makes me feel and appreciate what it means to be Canadian. Its a comforting sound embedded in my psyche from childhood. thank you

Wheat Kings and Pretty things..Iconic Loon call right at the start of the song..
Chills...Love the song, and the sound of the bird on the wing..
Mysterious, and somewhat hard to see while paddling the Thousands of lakes in Canada..
But quite a nice find...Not hunted that i know of, and rightly so..
Proudly seen across the country..and recognised..Great representation of Our Country!
Make it SO!

Loon's are Canada"s music

I lové birds.

although my sentimental favorite is the Gray Jay (Canada Jay), the variety of calls of the loon, and the way they penetrate the lake and forest area make it first on my list.

The call of the loon seems ubiquitous across the country - I've heard it while camping next to lakes in BC and all the way across Canada to Newfoundland. And a prettier bird call I've yet to hear.

The loon defines my time on lakes in our national parks. Canoeing to a camp site and hearing a loon on the lake feels so calming, comforting and like home.

It's on our $1 coin, which is known as the "loonie" as a result. Can't think of a better option!

The loon is a beautiful bird and the call of a loon is totally distinctive

The quivering loon call evokes memories of my childhood summers spent on or near the rivers and lakes of Ontario. Probably the first bird which I was able to name and is the bird that immediately comes to mind when I think of the immense beauty and mystery of the Canadian wild.

The call of the loon - morning, daytime, evening - enchanting, exciting, mysterious - so real, so natural, so Canadian.
Such a sturdy bird, artistic in body and soul too. Whether alone in the water, searching for fish, diving down and appearing way off again - or in a pack of several or many calling, chattering, singing - I always stop to watch and enjoy.
When I hear the call of the loon I feel my Mom close. She and her generation loved loons too.
Loons are common, but not common at all. This special bird helps us to pause in our sometimes frantic life to reflect how lucky we are to be Canadian, to enjoy our vast land, to know freedom as the loon does., to have a sense of purpose, as we do, caring for our young, our elderly, ourselves.
That is our loon.

I cannot imagine a more iconic symbol of the beauty of our nation's wilderness than the serenity of the loon or its soulful almost wistful call.

I grew up in Ontario and we summered on a beautiful lake in the Kawartha's. The Loon is the most beautiful and haunting bird call ever. It always takes me back to happy childhood days.

The plaintive cry of the loon represents the quintessential Canadian sound experience.

Gotta vote for the Loon. Everything about it is beautiful. The sleek almost shiny look of it's outline and black/white feathers, the red eyes and a call that all true Canadians can identify but only some can replicate. A call that puts you at peace when you hear it.

Common Loon is a helpful birds to all creation of animals/birds of the land as the Kaska stories told. Loons tells the season of arrival in spring and lets others birds know when is time to teach the young birds to fly. They are the last to leave as they make sure other birds are on their way south. Loons help the blind to navigate to water and let others know where the water bodies are. They send a warning sounds of weather of storm and wind. So is a good country bird for Canada and is already on the dollar coin.

It was always the first thing we did as children when we arrived at camp. Run to the lake and look for the loons. To me, they symbolize all things natural and good. We always waited for the call to echo out over the lake like they were saying good-bye to us when we left. Many summers were spent by these guidelines and I truly believe when I think of home and my youth,that is the first thought that flows thru my mind.

When I hear the haunting and laughing call of the loon Ithink of my country Canada and I'm proud to be Canadian.

The Loon is the bird that symbolizes the beauty and loneliness of the Canadian North the best.

It's already on our currency; the loon exists everywhere in Canada that I know of, and I grew up with the loon call on Hinterland Who's Who. Iconic bird for our nation (and they don't leave their waste all over the place).

The call of the loon is a quintessential part of Canada's northern lakes. We all recognize it. So much so that the loon appears on our $1 coin which is colloquially termed a "looney".

Whenever I heard the call of a loon whether in the wild,on tv or in a movie I think of a beautiful lake scene in Canada. I don't think you can hear the loon's call without thinking of Canada. The loon is a recognized part of Canadian culture already on our one dollar coin, the loonie.

A big part of being Canadian is hearing the different calls of the Loon. From spring till fall the sounds enchant and make me think of being in Canada!

Every summer I visit different lakes around the country. The loon is what get most excited about seeing and hearing. Seeing the babies, and mom protecting them is priceless. We have some amazing pictures.

The haunting call of the Common Loon is recognized by most Canadians, and most Canadians will likely have occasion to see one even if they are primarily urban dwellers. The birds are widespread in Canada from east to west and north to south, and even though they do not remain in the interior of Canada, they do remain off both coasts and on the Great Lakes during the winter months. Although the Gray Jay and Snowy Owls are also good choices and widely distributed in Canada, they are not likely to be familiar to or seen my most Canadians who do live in large urban areas.

Canada has more fresh water lakes than anywhere else! Fresh water = loons. The loons know where the fresh water is! The loon should be our national bird (plus it's so clever it sometimes shows up on a coin that has it's name)

As a girl, I listened to the loons, often at night as I was drifting into sleep in a tent on the shores of Lake Huron.
When I first heard one, I was terrified by the erie, haunting cry. As I grew more and more familiar, I found the cry comforting, and looked forward to hearing it. When I eventually sighted one, long long after my fiirst auditory experiences, I was mesmerized by their beauty. I loved trying to predict where they would surface after their seemingly interminable dives. For me they symbolize the best of the vast and beautiful areas of Canada.

I do a lot of kayaking in Ontario waters and have much admiration and respect for the loon.Love their sound!
Go Loon Go

It's on the money!

Lovely bird

The loon, the loon, the loon. The iconic Canadian bird. The haunting call of the Canadian wilderness. This is our national bird.

It's already on the $1 coin and I believe the loon can be found in nearly all of Canada, unlike many of the other birds.

And let's face it, in Canada, we are all a bit loonie :)

It's already on the $1 coin and I believe the loon can be found in nearly all of Canada, unlike many of the other birds.

And let's face it, in Canada, we are all a bit loonie :)

A seabird captures the sea to sea to sea geography of Canada, plus many people already associate it with Canada as a nation. Its call and appearance are unique. It is a species that many people will have seen and heard -- it is familiar, but not so common that people take it for granted or consider it a noisy irritant (e.g. Raven)

Its just a gut feeling. This bird, when you here its call in the early morning beside a lake at the camp, cottage or even better camping, you know where you are, you're in Canada, Yeah!

The call of the loon is a quintessential Canadian thing to do

Once you have heard the call of a loon, you will remember it forever. I'm 75 and first heard the loon call one evening on a lake in Alberta when I was about 10.

Haunting, willd and beautiful. This spectacular bird stirs the Canadian soul.

I love the call of the common Loon. I see them all the time when I am fishing on Grand Lake, Indian Lake and French Lake and Macquapit Lake all found near where I liv. I especially like to go to Indian Point on Grand Lake early in the morning during the Summer. There are many Loons, Grey Herons, Canada Goose, Bald Eagles and even the occasional Golden Eagle can be seen. The Loon is amazing and that beautiful call can be heard from far away. I just saw one yesterday with her young on French Lake and she was weary but did not fly away as her young one was not ready to do so.

We just returned from a camping trip in Lake Superior Park, one of many. We camped on an inland lake called Mijinimungshing Lake.
We were there maybe, 15 minutes, and there it was, the call of the loon.
Nothing and I mean nothing depicts Canada as much as the loon.
It is a gorgeous bird, with its black and white plummage.....and to hear its wings flapping in the water is something else.
You must experience the loon and its call at least once in your lifetime.
Especially at night, it has a beautiful, calming effect.
So, YES, it must be the common loon.

The loon is the sound most people in Canada will recognize from travelling up north

Beautiful bird, has a very soothing call, means Canada to me.

I grew up on the St. Lawrence River just East of Gananoque Ontario. The common loon is a symbol of that river as far as I am concerned. We used to listen to it calling at night and when we heard it calling as it was flying we always knew that rain was not far away. When we saw the loon in the spring we knew that summer was not far away. Its haunting call brings me back to the time when I was young and I stop whatever I am doing and listen as I did as a child.

The common loon is one of the most beautiful birds in Canada. Its haunting cry is distinctive.

The call of the loon to me is a quintessential backcountry Canadian sound, which is why I have to cast my vote for it!

The loon is beautiful. It's iconic and loons are found everywhere in Canada. There is nothing more wonderful than lying on a dock at dusk on a lake in northern Ontario and being serenaded my the mournful cry of a loon.

The call of the loon echoing over a mirror-like lake in the early morning is an experience that every Canadian should share at least once!

When I think of the Common loon, it reminds me of Canada's wilderness, lakes and waterways. It reminds me of the vastness of Canada, its connection with the earth, air and water. I feel it represents the importance Canada's place on our natural surroundings.

We have for many years enjoyed seeing the loons on Hurdslake near Renfrew Ontario. When we first cottages on the lake in the early fifties it was difficult to get close to the loons. In the seventies it was possible to get within a hundred yards. Now the birds have adjusted to the numerous boats on the lake you can come to perhaps ten yards without disturbing them.

We have watched them from newly from the nest till they are ready to be on their own. They keep us a our guests busy observing their daily swimming and diving. We built a raft for them to nest on.

No sound is as haunting and evocative than the call of the loon.

The Loon embodies the calm and beauty of this country.

I moved to Canada in 1992. We lived close to a lake and the loon call will forever be one of the most iconic Canadian sounds for me.

Without the Loon's eerie call, a misty early morning on a mirror smooth lake, will just not be CANADA!
What pleasure to see them in pairs and groups, watching you carefully as the boat edges closer. Then with a gracious dive they slip under the cold water to surface many minutes later and a long distance away.
If you are lucky, you may see a Loon rolling on its side to comb it feathers whilst twitching its little tail feather like a conductor's baton.
Do not forget to look for the mother carrying one or more babies on her back, safe and warm away from the cold water.
Literally Mom's Loon Taxi!

This bird speaks to the character of the country. Possessed of great beauty and grace in the water, but ungainly on land and requires a long run to get into flight. A haunting, lonely call that reminds us of the wide open spaces that we can still find in Canada and how important it is to protect them. A reminder of our untamed past and a caution for our uncharted future. As Canadian a symbol as the moose and maple leaf, the loon gets my vote fur Canada's national bird.

As someone who has lived in different provinces and countries, there is no bird or sound that makes me so fond of Canada. To hear the various "thrilling" of Loons alone, as mates, or as parents, each sound is special and alluring.

Whether camping in Algonquin Park, sitting on a dock on a misty evening, or staring at the sky, the Loon makes us feel special about our own existence. Watching them gracefully dip and disappear beneath the water only reappear 50 meters away is incredible.

The call of the Loon is the call of Canada

Due to the fact it's in every province and territory. The call of the loon reminds me of the national film board vignettes. We also feature it on our one dollar coin, the loonie, how could any other bird compare.

A loon is consistent with our money. A Canada goose fouls our walks and parks and sometimes a nuisance.

I personally think it should be either the loon or the Canada Goose. Since geese are assholes, I'm going with the loon.

I had never seen and especially not hear a Loon before I came to Canada.
The first time I hear Loon cry was around Sudbury area and the sound scared the heck out of me. I had no idea it was a bird.In time I got used to the sound and got to love it.The nights at the cottage with the loons laughing and crying were special.
True sound of Canada.

The loon reminds me of the cottage BWANA and all of the wonderful memories I have from there.

LaLoooo' LaLooo'
Thank you
for your
Native Song
Strong and Free

While I take great pleasure in our beautiful native birds the common loon for me will always evoke wonderful memories of Northern Ontario's lakes and the haunting call of the loon in the evening. The calls of the loon heralded the end of another wonderful day and great times around the campfire.

The mighty loon!

Loons is in every province in Canada. Does not migrate stays in Canada. His song is comforting.

Rarely seen though often heard. A bird of beauty and amazing diving/swimming skills. Great parents.Have a series of calls with different messages. Poor at taking off for flight yet escape winter by flying to open water..ocean or a great lake.

Because of the haunting sounds I have heard so many times while camping on Taylor Lake, Quebec.

Here's what I would like to say from research. It is very important to me that the Common Loon is featured on the Loonie, the Canadian coin, and the Loonie is named after the Loon itself. I know it may migrate to Mexico but at least it doesn't go too far. I also know that the Loon was mentioned in a Micmac saga so that means that the Loonie is well known and was recognized long ago, which is important. I know it is already the provincial bird of Ontario but hopefully it can still be the National bird of Canada. I have no doubts about the Loon and my decision was pretty easy. Loons used to be on the previous series of 20$ bills and that is also very important. The bird is well-known and is far from the verge of extinction. Please consider this. Therefore, I am proudly voting for the Common Loon as the national bird of Canada. Thank you -Katie

If you have ever been on a small lake in the morning, paddling a canoe and heard and seen a loon up close. Then you will understand my choice.

The Loon is a great symbol of Canada, it's call can be recognized by most people and it is very distinctive. It lives in many area of the country and gives people a feeling of freedom as it arrives in the bay.

Very enjoyable to see and hear at the cottage.

The reason I vote for loon because the loon will give warning to swimmers and boaters on our lakes by issuing a call to heed that bad weather coming and when the loon leaves the lake for shore that is the time to get off the lake

The call of the Loon is a call that reminds Canadians of the privilege and responsibility we have in being Canadian. When we hear it, wherever we hear it, we stop, reflect, rise, and engage. Elegant in form, the Loon reminds us to have class in our interactions in the built environment and in nature.

Capable on, under and above the water, Canadians can identify with the Loon. We believe we are capable as a nation and as a nation of one to do social good.

The call of the Loon evokes a range of emotions from steadfast commitment in solitude to a participating in a gaggle of fun

The Loon should be Canada's national bird.

The sound of a Loon is a CANADIAN tune.

it's already on the loonie, why not eh

We have it on our money and is now recognized by many across our nation.

It is iconic, it is Canadian!

The sound of the loon is one of those melodies that brings back life-long memories. As a little girl watching with my family The Nature Of Things, to camping trips, walks along the St. John River, canoe trips in Algonquin, Ontario, houseboating, days at the cottage, boat rides, the shiny gold jingle in my pocket and more, the loon is a wonderful representative for our great country, from sea to shining sea.

The common Loon is such a beautiful bird. Every time I'm on or around a lake I love their call, it sure is part of the nature and being in Canada. This bird always reminds me of living in Canada and I'm proud of being a Canadian resident.

The Loon Call at dusk sitting by a lake is an emotional reminder of our belonging to Canada.

Majestic bird.

Summer evening,
Golden hour merging with twilight.
Northern glow fading with the reflection on the blue glass so still,
Haunting call echoing off of boreal woods.
Loon floating by, like a friend of warmer times.

The loon represents Canada more than any other bird - the blue jay would be second, but it is not known across the Rockies - so. have to go with the LOON

My partner and I immigrated from Britain 35 years ago. We'd never heard or seen a loon. In our first summer in Muskoka, where we were working at a children's camp, we were absolutely mesmerized by this extraordinary bird. Its call in the evening seemed almost supernatural, and its ability to disappear underwater and surface at a huge distance from where it dove was well nigh unparalleled, in our experience. It is also such a beautiful creature. Over the years we have indeed come to identify the loon with Canada. Every summer, wherever in Ontario or Quebec we may be cottaging, we wait for the call of the loon. Once we've heard it, we can relax. That's the moment when we feel in touch with eternal Canada-- the Canada we need to honour and respect, and pay attention to, if we're going to live wisely for the rest of the year.

Once heard, who can forget the haunting call of the loon. It sears itself upon your soul cementing the relationship between you and Canada's great outdoors.

the loon is so very representative of the lakes of the north! And so many Canadians identify with the north.

The Common Loon is iconic, in my estimation, of all that I value in Canada. It's a wild, slightly strange creature with its awkward gait. It is of the air, the earth and the water, and free, all elements that speak to me of Canada and the freedom we have in this country. It is a sleek bird with its dark feathers with highlights of grey and white, and eyes that are a beautiful red.. The Common Loon is a distinctive, elegant bird. The sight of the Common Loon with its flotilla of young on the wild and popular lakes of Canada is unforgettable. And then, there is the call of the Common Loon in the late evenings and early mornings, a lone, strange and somehow, comforting call telling me that I am where I need to be.

The loon call on a lake is the most soothing sound in the late evenings. Love to watch them carry their young on their back. Loons are a sign of CANADA

Sound at the start of "wheat kings". Always gets me!

I grew up enjoying summer cottage life. We watched and listened to loons with such pleasure. Later, my husband and I canoed around the birds and I watched a group of them dancing in a circle in the water one time from a nearby canoe with our 3 children entranced as well. The call of the loon is never to be forgotten and takes me back to so many happy times by the water.

In my youthful days, while camping with the Boy Scouts, I fondly remember the calls of the loon, often mournful and sometimes mirthful. Living in an urban area I seldom hear the call of the loon these days. I miss these iconic sounds.

The Common Loon is, well, a common sight! Anyone who has travelled to many of the beautiful lakes in Canada must, in some part of their memory and thought, have a picture of this beautiful animal stowed away and the echo of its haunting call ringing in their ears. The Loon evokes a certain majesty and elegance by its colouring and sleek shape, perhaps some fear by the look of its fiery red eye, and awe by the way it deftly dives into waters only to reappear further than one might expect. There's nothing more serene and enchanting than to hear its calls at dusk or at dawn, and nothing more rewarding than to chance a peek at a chick or two tucked away on its back. While there are many birds which represent so many aspects of this country, there's something about the loon which brings to mind the perfect picture of our lush boreal forest, covering so much of Canada from the East to the West and of course, all over the North, the clear, deep waters of our many lake systems and something quiet and powerful about Canada itself. All over this country, where the stony shores are lined with cottages and houses and the forests filled with campsites, though people might be hoping to see a bear, or moose, or just hoping for a good time, I can guarantee you'll hear that momentary silence after the call of the loon, because no matter how many times you hear it, and even if you can't see it, it quiets something deep, personal and shared in any and all Canadians. That's why my vote goes to the loon, I could think of no bird more worthy!

The common loon.

Vote for the loon, the magpie of the sea.

It is a beautiful bird, so serene on the water, just great to see from the shore or up close from a quiet canoe ride. I love photographing them. Or own Robert Bateman did great pics of the common loon. I hope it becomes the National bird.

The Common Loon represents Canada's character as a peaceful country with beautiful wide open spaces, clean water and fresh air to breath!

As a child, ever summer the family would go up to a small lake near Owen Sound Ontario and we would always hear the Loon calling and it is a sound you never forget and it is a sound I miss.

When one thinks of Canada, one thinks of the great outdoors, of all the nature and beauty our country possesses. With the great outdoors, one instantly thinks of the loon. It is on our currency, which is lovingly called the loonie, as well as the loon's call being used in all Canadian heritage and nature shows/documentaries/films. When one sees or hears about a loon, one automatically thinks of Canada. The two are inseparable, which is why the loon should be our national bird.

There is nothing like paddling thru Algonquin Park in the Fall, watching and listening to the Loons, as they gather together in groups of up to thirty, preparing to fly south.

The call of the loon is iconic. Even thinking about it makes me think of being near a lake in the wilderness.

Because its a damn cool bird, its easily recognizable, and because i like it :/

I find the loon a fascinating bird...it flies, swims and beautiful looking along with mating for life makes it my fav. The sound of the loon in the evening is something else!

The loon is iconic! It represents our country well - wild and beautiful. There is nothing like hearing a loon call across the lake. Just like listening to a great singer, their call stirs you. You know you've heard something that moves your soul. They are beautiful to look at and a pleasure to watch.

Love the hauntingly beautiful call of the loon, so distinctively Canadian wherever you are across Canada!

We love the loons that come to visit our small lake each year. Every year since the early sixties (probably longer) two loons come to Shepherd Lake in Northern Ontario. They build a nest and then raise their young on the lake. We enjoy seeing them as they swim up and down the lake and listening to their call is a highlight of the day. No matter how much they call, you always want to hear more of that unique sound they make.

If you've ever heard the call of a loon on a calm lake, you know there is no other choice.

Its the bird we nick named our currency after. Its call defines night fall in the northern lakes. Its our national bird.

The call of the loon is.the sound I associate withCanadian lakes and camping as a child. It is so very Canadian and is my link to many great memories. It has a soulful cry which for some reason I associate with the Canadian character....not brash, no showmanship, just a clear call that signals its place in the Canadian decor.

The loon as always been some sort of icon for canada as well as the canadian goose by far, but growing up i always seen the loon as the iconic bird of Canada.

Something about sitting on the lake hearing the Loon call has always been a nostalgia type sound for me, and I am sure many others. With Canada's great amount of lakes, the beauty of it all in the early mornings and you hear that loon, everything seems just to be at peace.

Covers all provinces and territories... easily recognized from the loonie!

I love the loon's cry and how they fly above the water.

It's already a Canadian symbol on the $1 coin so it seems apt to also be Canada's national bird. The Canada goose, possibly a close second, already commemorates the nation in its name.

Thre is nowhere I have been that the loon isn't part of the wetlands landscape. It simply says Canada to me in ways the other birds don't. So much of our art and our folk art involves the loon.

And the call is as distinctive as the look of its graceful wings.

Kim

It's dusk in cottage country and you hear a far away call of the loon. Your heart stirs and you know that this is your country. There is no mistake! You have arrived. Home!

Really,nothing says Canada like the sound of the common loon's hauntingly beautiful call on any lake in Canada. As a child the first bird call I learned to imitate was the loon .🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦😎

The loon is a truly majestic bird. When we go to the lake my favorite time is in the morning when the loons are flying in from another part of the lake, listening to their calls...then kayaking out to sit and watch them. They come quite close as they know I sense they know I won't harm them.

This is a bird that is found widespread throughout Canada. it is beautiful and majestic just like our country.

It is one of those special Canadian moments to hear the loon laughing in the night.

The loon is indigenous to Canada's wonderful lakes - of which we have a multitude. Canada is known for its abundance of lakes, and therefore it is countrywide from coast to coast.
It is on our one dollar coin, which is commonly known as the loonie!
Therefore it represents the entire country of Canada!
This would be an excellent choice!

I feel that the loon represents Canada due to the country's vast wilderness and abundant fresh water lakes.

While living abroad for a few years one of the things I missed the most was the call of the loon on a summer evening.

I hear these birds here in Kenora in the a.m and night...they put me to sleep.....

As a commercial pilot, I've been all over this country and one of the constants (outside the cities) was the unmistakable sound of the loon.

The other candidates are just not on the same level.. for example, a Jay or an Owl must be up close and personal to be noticed, while the sound of a single loon can cover miles of shoreline.

And, the loon can be found on fresh or saltwater, so all of Canada is home to this unique and beautiful bird.

My favourite bird of all time.......... a true spirit of Canada

We are all a bit looney up here.

Most haunting cry of any bird, especially in the dark. A monogamous bird who cares deeply for its young. Early arrival in the spring on lakes brings warmth to the heart after a long arduous winter. The best Canadian bird, bar none.

The sound of the loon on our Canafian lakes is so iconic. It brings shivers to my spine when I hear it.

Should definitely represent Canada!!! They're haunting song is beautiful!!

I believe the Loon is already associated with Canada and therefore is the natural choice as our national bird.

I remember laying in bed at our aunt's cabin, on Okanagan Lake. You could hear the Loons calling as you drifted off to sleep. This last summer I had the opportunity to visit a friend at her home on Idabel Lake in the Okanagan and again hear the loon calling. It is such a warm blanket memory to wrap yourself in.

The common loon is an excellent choice for Canada's national bird for a number of reasons. It's habitat is not limited to a few provinces, but rather, can be found from coast to coast to coast. The common loon is considered a 'northern' bird, as is Canada a 'northern' nation. It has several outstanding attributes: it's an excellent swimmer; it can dive extremely deep to catch fish, up to about 200 feet; and it has a haunting call that is quite unique. For me, the call of a loon immediately conjours up memories of a a quiet Canadian lake in the summer. The common loon also seems to have a loyal family instinct, which is an attribute that I'd like to associate with our country, and we often see mother with one to three young loons in tow.

In my opinion, the Loon deserves the honour for Canada. We have had a pair of Loons returning to Meaghers Lake for as long as we have lived here, twenty two years. They are beautiful and have the most haunting and yet soothing call, which we mostly hear at night and sometimes during the day. They are graceful swimmers, and able fishers. In the beginning they had young but not anymore. They are part of our beautiful and tranquil landscape and we are sad when they leave us for the winter. We anxiously look for them once the ice is gone from the lake in the spring and we would miss them dearly if they did not return.

The loon reminds me of Canada every time I hear its call.

Prairies born and raised, I was a teen before I saw my first Loon. As a child I’d read the legend of how it got its necklace, and had heard them (rarely) on southern lakes, but it was on a trip to northern Saskatchewan where I saw first saw one. Such a beautiful bird, diver extraordinaire, and amazingly fast when skimming across the water before taking flight. It was years before I knew that Loons are unable to take off from land.
Anyone who has heard a Loon will never forget its laugh, and its haunting call echoes the ache in me every time I leave the north to return home to my prairies. don’t leEEEeeave! It cries, bouncing off the shore, lake to lake to lake. I’ve come to love the north as much as the prairies, and the Loon has become my favourite bird.
The voyageurs explored our vast, magnificent country with the call of the Common Loon accompanying the drip of water from paddle. Some say its cry is a lonely sound, but it must also have been comforting to them, the sound of their new country. The sound of my home.
The Loon, to me, is Canada’s bird.

Still, to this day, I can remember the call of the Loon, floating over a Lake in the Haliburton Highlands. At that moment, I believed that I was incredibly lucky to have had that opportunity to witness the voice of Nature, in Canada.

The look and sound of the Loon echoes from the Lakes and waterways of Canada and was witnessed by the Indians, Vikings and Voyageurs who plied these waters in our early history and can still be heard today.

The Loon .

I don't see them here in BC as often as I do the majestic Great Blue Heron or the adorable black-capped chickadee, but when I hear the loon, their sound is magic. Any of these birds would be fitting as our national bird. I only get to see the snowy owl when I'm in Ontario and they too, are magnificent birds.

The loon reminds me of the my quintessential Canadian canoeing holidays in the northern Ontario lakes.It is a personal experience with memories of the best holidays ever.

Part of me wants to vote for the Whiskey Jack because it mates in winter - like most Canadians! - but the loon IS Canadian wilderness and can be found in every province.

The common loon is the true voice of the Canadian wilderness,

Not an essay, but memories. On long distance canoe trips in the wilderness, they are our most favourite friends seeming to follow us as we went. One time on the end of a long leg, there were 23 of them in the bay where we took out.

Love the loons.

The Common Loon represents Canada in my opinion.

the loon is so tranquil. the soothing sound it makes while canoeing or listening from the cottage. I think it stands for Canadian National bird. By far my favourite.

The haunting call of the loon is a sound I have always associated with our wonderful country, there is nothing more transcendent than sitting around the campfire and hearing the loons call. It represents to me all that I love about Canada, the true north strong and free.

In my short 23 years of life I have been lucky enough to travel abroad many times but also with in my own country. Growing up in Minden Ontario allowed me to experience the haunting call of the loon on many occasion. There is nothing quite like it anywhere else in the world, at least in my experience so far. It is a quintessential part of the Canadian identity and is something I find myself quite often missing while abroad. Now that I'm out in BC I find my self longing for those cool misty mornings overlooking a lake from my tent to what can only be the wilds of Ontario with nothing but a pair of loons as my alarm clock. It's a comfort that won't soon be replaced!

I like the sound of a loon

What could be more Canadian than the call of the Loon?

As a kid I spent my summers at a cottage on a Quebec Laurentian lake. I found the loon fascinating. It flew in at unexpected times usually alone but sometimes with a partner. It swam, plunged and flew short distances. Sometimes it stayed for hours. I loved its profile, something that could be easily drawn, calming. I could imagine the peace that he must have felt similar to my state of mind when on a canoe trip on an uninhabited lake, something that we did occasionally with my brothers and sisters. Whenever I go back to the cottage that is still in the family, I hope to see a loon, and usually one will show up if I stay long enough at the lake. The loon is associated in my mind with life in our great wilderness, his cry echoing between the mountains surrounding our small but deep water lake.

I picked the Common loon because it has a haunting call that just spells;
... C A N A D A ... in the calmest of ways, besides; it's on our dollar. ;-)

Just always thought the Loon was the National Bird. Love listening to it on the lake.

Love to hear the lonesome call of the Loon reminds me of the beautiful Canadian lakes of the north.

Where is the gannet on your list?

The loon's call in the evening when camping out at Cold Lake, Alberta was always one of my favourite memories.

The common loon song brings to mind pristine wilderness and clean waters... Peace.

Loon Haiku:

Mournful and haunting
Calls of the loons echo, fade
Voices of the North

I chose the Common Loon, because of how accessible it is to our Country, and how it is in almost every Province. Therefore, this bird represents the majority of Canada and should be recognized and made the National Bird of our Country. CANADA.

The echo of the loon haunting the lonely lakes of the north would represent Canada very well. We are known as being a northern country of pristine lakes and forests. Loons are not plentiful and are as unique as their song. Artists often depict them in paintings, sculpture and graphics on clothing. As such, it is a ready made symbol for us.

The loon is on our money
Which to others may appear funny
Canadians love the idea
That others think we're "looney"

As we already have the Loon on our coins, our dollar piece affectionately known as the "Loonie" I think the Loon is the perfect bird for Canada.

Loon really represent Canada.

I believe the loon is the quintessential Canadian bird, given our love and appreciation of nature and how the loon is such a key figure in that environment. After the long winter that most Canadians endure stoically, few things, if any, better symbolize Canada's summer than the loon.

There is also the significant point that it is on the loonie.

I would like to add that we have enacted legislation in Canada around fishing and hunting, and the use of lead. We have banned it in many areas in Canada, including national parks, to help protect species like the loon. I believe the loon is mentioned specifically in the process, if not the legislation. This bird is so important, it helped frame protective legislation in our country.

In researching this, I found that the loon is also a significant character in native culture, and in any viewing/appreciation of native art, the loon is prominently represented.

We moved to Canada in 1973 and made friends with a couple whose parents had a cottage near Coboconk, ON. The first time we heard a loon call it summed up everything about our new home - it was the cry of the wild and just so Canadian. We now live in South Shore Nova Scotia and everytime we drive into town beside the Eastern Passage to Shelburne harbour we see loons and almost every time we go to a beach there they are.
They are so Canadian and we thought they were Canada's bird already. Now is the time to make it official!

I love the sound of the loon.

The essence of Canada - the haunting call on the many lake land waters we are fortunate to have - the sound of peace in our hearts....

The essence of Canada - the haunting call on the many lake land waters we are fortunate to have - the sound of peace in our hearts....

I would like to see the loon as our National bird. As we all know, Canada is a country that streatches from sea to sea, to sea. So does the loon. Although in the north it is the Arctic loon, but a loon nevertheless.

What could be more Canadian then the Loon. It's haunting call across the lakes symbolizes summer and life at the cottage.

At a cottage many years ago on Indian Lake in Ontario, I was floating on my air mattress. A mother loon came very close to me with her two young offspring on her back. It was a wonderful experience. Also, every day, you could hear their call.

The call of the loon is a sound that once heard, is never forgotten. Canadian kids, (and adults too), spend countless hours trying copy the haunting call of the common loon. Whether canoeing on the lake, or day dreaming on a dock, Canadians greet the sound of a loon as a sure sign that summer has truly arrived.

Although they are wild birds, they seem to enjoy human contact and are curious observers of humans often diving away from swimmers only to pop up a few yards further away.

Loons are devoted parents and many Canadians have spent time watching them teach their chicks too dive. Quite a humorous show as the chicks must first learn to battle with the buoyancy that wants to keep them on top of the water!

Although the snowy owl is a noble bird, it is not well known by most Canadians.

Most beautiful haunting sound in the world.

Have always loved the 'haunting' call of the loon on our Canadian lakes. I own several various-sizes of wood-carved loons in my home.

haunting calls echoing throughout the mist filled morning air. iconic sillouette engraved on our currency, our hearts and even in our mythology. The common loon is numbered among our first nations oral history, the memories of our pioneer forebears and in the cottage and wilderness stories told to our children today. It's a unifying symbol even as its numbers wane. Few today can simply visit a back country lake to hear its lonely call but for those who do your breath is held in wonder as your heart perhaps skips a beat. This same beating heart skips and breath is drawn in national pride at mention of the coin bearing its noble countenance, dug in victory from beneath centre ice in Salt Lake City Utah and again in Vancouver where a nation celebrated what it is to be like, Canadian, and not unlike, red, yellow, black or white. This bird is ours and we Canadians, a mosaic not a melting pot, yet still proudly one!

I've loved the cry of the loon since I was a child. A striking looking bird with a sound unique to each and every loon is a characteristic that similarly represents the diversity of Canada.

It has been both our classic and such a beautiful bird in all manners, looks, sound; it is just a beautiful bird.

My father passed away 7 years ago at his cottage on Charleston Lake. He loved the lake for the fishing and for the loons. Once my father passed away a lone loon appeared at the cottage and I am certain that the loon is how my Father has chosen to come back to me. The loon comes back every summer and floats around in front of the cottage and is always around when something special is occurring at the lake. I have always loved listening to and the beauty of the common loon but now it has more meaning to me and my family. I think the loon would be a very majestic national bird for Canada.

Iconic.

Since I was a kid, I always enjoyed listening to the loons calling on the Madawaska River near Calabogie and Springtown. They remind me of my younger days and also the peace and tranquility of the cottage season.

We have a cottage on Barrington Lake, and have the privilege of watching the loons every year. They raise their young there, and it is such a pleasure when they all gather to take flight at the end of a season.
Their haunting call can be heard through the night, and early mornings.
Our granddaughter could call these birds, so they would swim very close to the shoreline where she sat, and was only about 10-12 at the time.
A very beautiful sight indeed.
I think they should be named as our official Canadian bird.
They were special enough to be placed on our dollar coin!

Unlike many other contenders, the loon is found right across the country. Its haunting voice is THE sound of summer for us all.

The relaxing and safe sounds of the loon is what draws me to vote for it. Something comforting in the evening to know that the loon's are on the lake and singing you goodnight.

Our common loon is always widely recognized across Canada. We love to hear them calling.

The Common Loon has always been associated with the north and wilderness country. Having been an avid canoeist, it is always been the sound that tells me I am in Canada's great and beautiful wilderness.

Doesn't matter if it's ONT.bird. It also could be and should be our National Bird. I've seen and been close to and heard lots of loons here in NB growing up beside the Miramcihi River and living in Ont. for 40 years. I've yet to see a Gray Jay.

I've also travelled widely and lived in 2 countries in SE ASia and in South Korea and saw many birds but none in the world are as unique as our common loon.

the sound of the loon!

Not only is it recognized by sight but also by sound. The cry of the Loon is iconic.

It is iconic on inland lakes in the summer, and occurs virtually throughout the country. It is a beautiful bird in breeding plumage, and very accessible to most people.

Our legecy and one of our best asset is our water...
The common loon is directly associated to this asset but it also represents so many things to differente people :
* family time .
* a reminder to stop and think
* appreciate the tranquility and peace .
* The loon also represents dedication and cooperation
And to you ...
...thank you for asking us our opinion. ..

The song of the loon is hear all around North America but no as much as in Canada. To hear that mournful call roll across the morning waters is just music to the soul.

Many great candidates and I was leaning towards the Common Raven, but when I gave it some more thought - the loon really does reflect Canada from coast to coast to coast. It does have one of the most lovely calls and they are nice to look at. And - we have them on our one dollar call, affectionately called the loonie by all Canadians. We have a definite soft spot for the common loon (and the other loon species). So, had to go with it.

Whether standing on the shore of a lake in some remote spot or walking on Vancouver's seawall the loon is a welcome sight and its call stirs a feeling of gratitude in me. I feel fortunate to live in Canada where this bird has a special place in our urban settings, in our wilderness, on our 'loonie', and most of all in our hearts.

This is my second attempt at voting, my first attempt was apparently unsuccessful..?

The loons call punctuates my evenings on the lake as the sun sets. It reminds me of how desolate Canada is and how even in a crowded world we are luck to have space.

My summers as a child were spent in a cabin on a small lake deep in the forest in northern Ontario. Some of my earliest and happiest memories are indelibly linked to the mournful sound of the loons on the lake.

The common loon is present in all provinces and territories of Canada and has a traditional tie with the native peoples of Canada.

Having grown up in Manitoba along the transition of the boreal forest and prairies I have had many occasions to observe the Common Loon in its natural habitat. Whether its hearing their call echo across the lake at dusk, or seeing them rise up and run across the surface of the water, or watch them silently slide by my campsite and slip under the surface it reminds me of all things that Canada is.....large and impressively beautiful, possessed with unruffled repose and marked by unruffled repose. The Common Loon gets my vote for Canada's National Bird.

I think that Canada has so many beautiful birds, which finding a National Bird can be a very hard and difficult task. After a lengthy reflection, a loon called out to me this morning. Funny enough, this loon sitting on the lake, woke me up and gave me the answer I was looking for, a cry to be Canada's National Bird.

Thank You

We live on Mississippi Lake and I see Loons on the water and hear them all the time. They like to come near our home and just stay there for a long time. I've read that they mate for life. They're just beautiful to watch.

The loon is evocative of both my childhood experiences on lakes and rivers in Ontario, and the lakes and oceans of my adult life in BC. Their call always stirs me.

I have always loved the sound of loons on the lake.

Love that they pair for life. I watch them out in front of our cabin on the Severn every weekend in the summer. So I associate them with my happy place.

Such fond memories, from childhood of being at the cottage and hearing the eery but beautiful sound of the loon calling.

I have always loved the loon and this summer I introduced my grandson and granddaughter to the loon. I love when they do their dance.

Just a beautiful bird that fills Canada's beautiful wilderness.

Evry summer since I ws a small child I have spent on Lake Muskoka and we always watch for the Loons returning. To me they have always represented Canada and in fact I thought they were the national bird.

The haunting call; the loonie and toonie, what more can I say?!!

There is nothing like being at anchor in a quiet location, sitting still in the cockpit of my sailboat, watching loons paddling past close by and listening to their distinct and memorable calls at dawn or dusk. My sailing days are past but this memory will always remain with me.

If one has had any time on any lake that isn't dotted with numerous cottages and other distractions, one would have heard the plaintiff call of our loon. It is a distinctive Canadian symbol and should be our national bird. While the candidates are admirable, this is the symbol of our Country.

There are few things as stirring, and quintessentially Canadian, as the strident ‘yodels’ of a common loon echoing across a northern lake in the hush and still of late dusk. Their voices demand reverence: I often hold my breath, and still my paddle, when they begin to call so as not to miss any of its song. So to, their large chiseled form and gorgeous plumage, surely to rival any human formal wear, elevates any body of water it occupies. A master fisher, it dives with ease and, when required, flies with conviction and purpose. The loon, like many Canadians, may not always overwinter with us, but it more than makes up for this seasonal absence by thrilling us in spring through fall. We are a land blessed with an abundance of fresh water lakes, and the loon is its emblem — strong, steadfast, immensely capable, and enduring.

On a personal level, my family has had a cottage in the Kawartha Lakes area since 1958 and enjoyed the loons in the area (as well as all of the other bird wildlife!) - hearing their calls, watching for nesting and babies each season, watching them hunting or enjoying the water. On a grander level, I feel the loon is iconic of the vast wilderness and freshwater lakes that make Canada unique as a country. I also feel the association with our "loonie" currency will help with awareness of our national bird.

The loon is Canada, beautiful and peaceful, amusing and intelligent. It has been the sound track to my life for as long as I can remember, more than 50 years.

Although loons migrate, they have their babies here in Canada.
They are a majestic bird, with a beautiful and calming call that can lull one to sleep at night. They mate for life and they don't mess up the walkways :-)

Through the Loonie The Loon is already well known as Canada's Bird.
It is also a pleasant bird - reflecting the CANADIAN CHARACTER- inhabiting the Northern Expanse of Canada, which even though less inhabited than the South it makes the major part of Canada's Territory

A bird that sounds and looks like Canada with a truly trans-country range.

The common loon is on our coins, it's a beautiful bird, with a calming almost hypnotic call. When you hear a loon call you know you are in beautiful peaceful country we call Canada, eh.

I have spent a lifetime on Georgian Bay, near Parry Sound, Ontario and the sight and sound of a Common Loon instantly takes me back to that place.

I like the loon

Canada is blessed with so many beautiful birds that it really is hard to narrow it down, isn't it? There's such a rich variety of colours, shapes and sizes out there! Our little feathered friends give us infinite joy with their calls and songs, not even aware that they're doing it - they're just going about their daily lives. Any one of them could be a winner. However, there's just something about the Common loon. We have so much natural beauty here in our country - forests, bogs, bluffs, hills, rivers, lakes, tundra - the list is practically endless. Places that most of us will never set foot on. But who has not stood on the shores of a peaceful, serene Canadian lake on a silent Canadian night, with only the stars and the moon for company? You look over the glass-like water and then you hear it.......that unmistakable call of the loon. Haunting and lonely, it speaks of our wilderness and solitude. It makes you feel that you're the only person on the planet.....but somehow, you don't mind. It's just you and the loon. And that's enough.

I would prefer the mosquito, but it wasn't an option.

To me the loon reminds me of better times. My late wife loved the loon and this bird made our camping trips in the summer complete. The distinctive call of the loon, the diving and waiting for the bird to surface and predicting where it would surface. The early morning "family swim" watching them glide along the edge of the lake will always be a treasured memory.
After I lost my wife, every time I visited dear friends at their cottage I would hear the call of the loon and I felt it was my late wife Terry saying," It's OK I am still with you and love you".
The loon will always mean love and Canada to me.

The call of the loon, across the still waters of the lake at dawn, is Canada.

Although many Canadians live in cities, our country is best represented by vast unhabituated lands, almost 90 percent of the overall territory. Much of these lands are dotted with pristine lakes. Upon many of these lakes can be heard the sounds of the loon. The cry of the loon is filled with purpose. The countryside of Canada is filled with purpose; not necessarily of profit and exploitation but of a country that blends meeting the physical and metaphysical needs of all its inhabitants.

The loon represents the peaceful sound of our wonderful country! It calms our spirit and welcomes all. It represents the strength, peace and welcoming nature of all of Canada!

I THOUGHT THIS WAS CANADA'S NATIONAL BIRD ANYWAY. WHY ARE YOU THINKING OF CHANGING IT?

No better choice than the Common Loon - sitting by a lake with some family/friends, a campfire, a few refreshing beverages and hearing the loon sign its song! Now that is Canada!

The loon and water go hand in hand, reminding us of the inestimable value of our live-giving resources. The loon has a distinctive call signalling its presence before one sees the bird. The loon is found in all parts of Canada, and has a proud place on Canada's currency.

There are a lot of good reasons for the loon to be the national bird, and they are very well laid out in many of the essays I have read, but the icing on the cake is that if the loon becomes the national bird Ontario might have to pick a new provincial bird and this strikes me as funny.

I have heard the loon call from Nova Scotia to Ontario to BC. When travelling overseas the Canadians are easily identifiable by their ability to make a loon call while blowing through their thumbs.

What better sound to wake up to first thing in the morning.......then to hear the cry of the loon. :^)

The haunting call of the loon on one of Canada's many lakes is so pleasing to the ear.

The Common Loon and its very recognizable call represents Canada's vast wilderness and its many, many lakes. It can be found across Canada most of the year and breeds here.

There is nothing like lying in bed at night at the cottage and listening to the Loons calling back and forth. I can lie there knowing that if they are there, there is food for them to eat and the lake is still healthy. I can let the noise lull me to sleep, knowing that they are there, mated for life, raising their families if they have been lucky enough to have one that year, and family life is good.
So many of these birds are worthy of winning this, but I believe that most Canadians, even if they don't own a cottage on a lake, know the Loon and what it's call sounds like...
There is also the fact that I don't believe, of all the Countries in this world, that any we mind being a bit "loonie"....if that means easily loving our Country without all the complaints heard from other parts of the world about governments, politicians and living conditions. I will happily be a Loonie Canadian!!!

anyone who has had the privilege of spending time around the small lakes in much of Canada would have to agree that the common loon is one of the most beautiful and enchanting birds in our country and with it's eerie, lonely call is certainly a symbol of Canada's vast unspoiled wildernesses.

When the loon appears on a lake, it is like the visit of royalty. Every Canadian who happens to be in the area gets down to the shore to admire its graceful glide across the waters. We proudly point to visitors that this is the LOON, our very own special bird. Its call resonates deeply in our soul, as if the grandeur and majesty of our great country speaks to something deep inside us. It is faithful to its mate for life and returns every year to its permanent abode on the same lake, Like many Canadians, it seeks warm countries for winter but faithfully returns home to its lake in Canada every spring. Isn't it already on the Canadian one dollar coin which we affectionately refer to as the "looney"? Naming it the national bird of Canada would just confirm this choice.

I vote for the loon because their haunting and eerie call is the epitome of true Canadian north.
Thank you.

Great bird - good parent - peaceful bird -

I think its a beautiful bird and would be proud to see it as Canada National Bird

What bird more represents the vast wilderness of Canada and naming the loon as our national bird connects it to our $1 coin, the Looonie.

In Canada, the Loon is ubiquitous..mike

There is nothing more thrilling or calming thank sitting in a deck chair, the night skies overhead and hearing the call of the Loon. I cannot believe that the Loon has not already been declared Canada's National bird. They are the most loyal, beautiful and caring birds. They mate for life, take care of and teach their young how to survive in our waters and they are so majestic to watch.
The Loon gets my vote for sure.

It's song is awsome. It echoes over our lakes and land. It deserves the first rank.

Wherever I am if I see a picture of a loon. My first thought is Canada. Very peaceful . It just means " home "

The haunting sound is soooo Canadian for me.

My choice is the common loon. Because the loon lives in all of the provinces and territories I believe it should be Canada's national bird. Anyone who has visited a lake or stream anywhere in Canada will be impressed by its haunting call. Sturdy, strong and beautiful it epitomizes the true Canadian spirit.

love the haunting call in the morning on a mist covered lake

Haunting call but very pleasing as it can be heard in peaceful lake country. Grew up hearing the call at our cottage.

if you'e ever stayed at Canadian lake its a no-brainer

The loon truly represents CANADA, with its haunting summer lake calls! We learn from a young age about this bird, and to recognize its music. Its already represented on our currency, and hopefully soon the world will recognize it as OUR bird. The loon already represents us as a people - let's make it official !

Really? Maybe it's just me but this seems like a pretty ovious choice.

The loon is majestic, beautiful, peaceful like the average Canadian. The first time I saw the loon, I was taken aside from it's beauty and presence. I think it represents Canada

I feel the majority of Caandians have more chance to see a loon in their live time than a snowy owl. I had a hard time deciding which one to choose. It was a close call.

It is a beautiful bird - distinctive in looks and in cry and evokes a feeling of
what Canada is.

A beautiful bird

Love the northern Canadian lake experience and the sound of the loon.

My favorite.

Many years ago my friends and I would attend the Saturday morning events at the Museum of Nature in Ottawa. Sixty- five years ago we knew every section and every display on all floors of this Museum..any new addition to an exhibit would cause a stir amongst us. The culmination of our museum visit would often be a seat in the theatre to view a movie. Today, every time I hear a Loon's erie call on the St.Lawrence River, the LOON'S NECKLACE film at that impressive Museum comes to mind. The Loon- their calls, their beautiful calm movements over the water and lasting good memories ...all contribute to my choice to vote for the Common Loon.

The loon is very special to me. In all the world it is my favourite. Since it inhabits every province and is already identified with Canada it should be our national bird.

Like allot of Canadians it stays around for the good weather and only mates in Canada

Lovely, haunting call and absolutely beautiful!

In the memory of my parents who have passed away. I have vivid memories of waking up as a child in cottage country in Sask hearing the call of the loon.

I love the sounds of the loons at night. There is so much aboriginal art work that depicts the loon.

With so much water around us, the loon and his unique song represent best our special country.

The common loon is so symbolic of Canada. Love the loon!!!

All birds are beautiful; however, OUR loon has special markings and the CALL of the loon is above any other bird. It is truly Canadian.
Look forward each year to seeing it at various lakes and watching as they have their young on their backs. Their eyes are also special.
I have only seen in Canadian waters.
My 2nd choice would be the snowy owl.

A good choice because it's here in Canada all year. The call is very distinct and most Canadians would recognize it when they see it.

The loon has a unique call, just as Canada is unique with it natural resources. It also lives on our lakes, we are blessed with so many lakes and it also lives across Canada.

The loon has unofficial been considered our national bird - appearing on our loonie, and I feel it's only fitting that it become official.

Evening at camp isn't complete till we hear the loons calling to each other.

With our Loonie dollar,it only makes sense the Loonie should be our National Bird

We live on Rocky Lake in North Manitoba, and during the summer enjoy
listening to the Call of the Wild.

Who can ever forget the haunting cry of the loon on northern lakes?

The haunting call of the loon best describes our beautiful Canadian Lakes.
Lisa

The beauty of this bird goes along with its mysterious call, calms the soul

Such a great representation of the great water pools in our country.

The loon is one of my favourite Birds. I enjoy listening to the distinctively eerie sound it makes. It reminds of a ghostly misty morning at Cyprus Lake when my wife and I were exploring the wilderness with our 1 and 3 month old son, 32 years ago. And to this day, I can still remember that awesome song.

Every day I awaken to either the sight or sound of a loon in or near our bay! This summer, a special loon family of 3 has been seen all around Kahshe Lake. The loon has such a majestic appearance floating on the water. Many days I have sat on the dock watching a loon dive for food, flutter and spread its wings and call out with that distinctive, shrill coo that at times, seems to change intonation- seemingly communicating different messages. When I'm at the lake, the loon is part of my favorite ecosystem- and worthy of being our national bird!

I can't wait for the loons to arrive on our lake every spring and hear there soulful call.i find it welcoming . Thankyou

I feel that the loon should be the national bird as most people already feel it is. It's an elegant bird very relaxing to hear the loon song. It has amazing detreminztion just like Canadian people do they work hard for what they have

The loon is my vote as I call it a classy bird, strong ,beautiful,, protective of its family,both parents stay to help their fledgling mature to make them ready to leave their sides,

Since the loon is on our $ it would be a good choice and would get international attention.

GO LOONS!

Beautiful bird and a wonderful, haunting call .. Truly represents Canada

The song of the Loon haunts the Canadian soul and is a constant reminder that we must be humbled by the beauty of nature and how every species must co-exist in order to survive. We see this lesson being played out in Canada's willingness to open our borders to immigrants, in our policies to protect the planet, and our return to peacekeeping and humanitarian support for war torn countries and those experiencing natural disasters. B

The common loon is already an icon on the Loonie coin and the bird is probably found from coast to coast to coast in Canada, and well represents Canada as a nation in its northern habitation.

The grace and elegance of this bird. The call of strength in it call.

Love to hear the loons call in the evening

The call of the Common Loon brings images of Canada to mind

The Common Loon is Canada's Narional bird.
It's lonely cries fill our lakes and forests, calling us all in the night for a late night swim or paddle.
Come come down to the lake. From your cottages, campers and tents. Witness my my beauty and strength. Hear my throughty yodels and u will learn what I know. Protect and do not disturb me. I am the Gaurdian of the lake. Your friend the Loon.

beautiful to look at enjoyable to listen to, what else is there

A beautiful bird that has a song that is heard across our many lakes in the quiet north and vast cottage country!! Canadians are known for their peaceful and quiet ways just as the loon signifies!

enjoy the loons call.the call of the wild

The loon's distinctive and bold call across a beautiful clear Lake is a sound and sight you won't forget. Proud to announce its presence and celebrate our natural rugged terrain, the loon represents the best of being Canadian.

I think the loon epitomizes the history of Canada as a nation of water. Water was an essential transportation system that effectively opened our country to exploration and settlement. The loon was there for all of that history. In fact, the loon was here before our history as a nation began. As an ancient species, the loon could in some ways be called the first Canadian.

Favorite childhood memories camping and listening to loon calls.

The loon, in my opinion, is representive of all provinces and territories and is my choice for Canada's National Bird.

The loon, in my opinion, is representive of all provinces and territories and is my choice for Canada's National Bird.

I've selected the common loon as they mate for life.

Canada's bird......

First off i cannot believe that Canada has been in existence 150 years and we do not have a National Bird, however my choice is for the Common Loon. It is a beautiful bird. The call of the Loon draws one to nature. It is also a peaceful, calm bird, how Canadian is that.

Having grown up in Northern Ontario, with loons nesting at the shore, and young loons playing tag with my canoe in the early mornings, and, espite my affection for many other birds that seem so "Canadian", there can be no doubt that the loon's wild haunting call is woven deep into the fabric of our Country, and so gets my vote.

The haunting call, included in songs such as Wheat Kings... Learning to make the sound as a kid with my hands & of course- the loonie! I had no idea we didn't even have a national bird. I would have guessed the Loon was it.

It was a bird species that I heard first when I moved to my current home . I wondered which species was making that haunting sound. It is on our currency. The term loonie is now embedded in our money and culture as well. It is a mysterious, tough, haunting, and unique sounding bird. Especially to those who camp, live near lakes, rivers or for those who escape the busy city centre can always recall the sound of the loon as it greets all of us to share a bit of respite and solace, and welcomes us to recharge our soul in our Canadian wilderness.

Holidays are represented by Loons greating us from the water. Their call across a still lake in the evening is unforgettable. They are seen closely caring for their young, and amaze us with a powerful underwater swimming ability.
P.S. They do their business on shore, even though it's difficult for them to walk, they do not soil the water. We can all take a lesson from the Loon.

We have experienced the wonderful call of the loon in many parts of Canada. Our most spectacular experience with loons was in Rushing River Provincial Park near Kenora ,Ontario. We were returning from Saskatchewan and were tenting when we heard the incredible sound of many loons which we later learned was a "loon convention". The next morning we spoke to neighboring tenters from Kansas and they would come to Rushing River in late August to experience the annual loon convention. During the summer we are blessed almost daily with the loon sounds and sightings on Lake Kashwakamak where we own a cottage.

It's beauty, it's haunting call, the majestic loon of the loon is why I feel it should represent Canada. It is a very recognized bird throughout Canada....

What could be more Canadian than canoeing deep into the wilderness, portaging through our Canadian shield to get to a secluded camp site with a lake all to yourself, with nothing but nature's sounds around you. You sit out on a rock by the water, listening to the waves slowly caressing the shoreline, cradled by the comforting arms of the red pine, marvelling at the majestic white pine in the distance, with the familiar and comforting call of the common loon bouncing off the rock all around you saying goodnight. After a night in the fresh pine air you wake up to the loons calling to you to start the day. There is really nothing at all common about them - they bring magic, beauty and a sense of peace wherever they are heard. They are stunning and graceful to watch. If you are lucky enough, as I have been, you get to experience gatherings that flood the air with the sound of their call - breathtaking! There is really nothing quite like it. There is no mistaking it - if you hear their magical call, you are in Canada.

There is nothing so invigorating than the sound of the loon. It is a majestic bird with beautiful colours.Their song is a chilling experience than you will never forget.

There is nothing so invigorating than the sound of the loon. It is a majestic bird with beautiful colours.Their song is a chilling experience than you will never forget.

The Canada Common loon, is the most peaceful and majestic bird, it is the king of the Canadian environment and i wait every morning to hear its cry to get out f bed. The most beautiful scene I have seen was a mother loon on the lake with one chick on its back.

The song of the loon is hauntingly beautiful. It arouses images of serene lakes and the precious Canadian wilderness.

My home is Northern Ontario - what else is there to say??

A beautiful bird.

So many beautiful birds on this list, the snowy owl, our beloved blue jays, the white throated sparrow whom I've always known as our "O Canada" bird, our maritime "penguins" the Atlantic Puffins that I had the good fortune to visit this summer and the Great Blue Heron that always makes me catch my breath when it takes me by surprise with all its majesty. You have a very hard job ahead. BUT.. if I am to pick a bird that represents Canada to me then it must be the Common Loon. This beautiful, resilient, intelligent bird are like family who I visit at my dockside each summer and the call of the loon is the most beautiful haunting sound on earth.

There is no province in Canada that does not have the loon living there

Beautiful looking and sounding bird

Everyone knows it's call!

love the sound it makes and it is on our twoonie

The Loon is among the most beautiful birds IN Canada which reflects the nature of Canada. The loon is also shy and demurring which reflects the character of Canadians (until someone lays down the gloves).
There is no more beautiful sound than the sound of a Loon's call while out camping on the edge of a lake. This wonderful, unforgettable sound is imbedded in the Canadian soul from the first time it is heard. Any visitor to Canada will savour this beautiful sound and remember it for a lifetime.

This bird is in every province and territory it's morning call is the testament to Canadian living and culture.

My fondest memory of the loon comes from visiting Jasper National Park 20 years ago with my mother and sister. It was
raining slightly and 3 loons flew into the lake all making the most wonderful sounds. It was like music to my ears and positively thrilling!

Easily the most haunting call of any bird out there. Reminds me of the great out of doors and my love for it

Choice - loon

One bird who is known all directions in Camada. I've lived north, east and west and south. One comma a
It is the haunting sound of the loon. It's a must...

Their beauty, loyalty and haunting song. Also my husband used his loon call to attract his mate!

Always thought the Loon was already our national bird.

Sound of the loon over a beautiful lake at sunset- what could be better.

Our loon is basically the call of the wild - it is Canada!

When my family goes camping..the one sound we love at night to put us to sleep is the call of the Loon. We love all birds, to wake up to but there is nothing better when looking at the stars and hearing that beautiful and unique sound of the calling of the loon.

With Canada having the most number of lakes in the world the choice is only logical. Every person has gone to bed and been awaken to the beautiful and highly recognizable call of the Common Loon.

Having travelled in all the provinces in our great country; I have always been mesmerized by the call on the loon and the beauty of the grace of the bird. I feel that is a wildly recognized symbols of our counry.

Honored on our coin, beautiful \ soothing voice,

Our loon is basically the call of the wild - it is Canada!

when I heard about this on the news this morning, my immediate thought and image was of loons gathering in Long Bay on Manitoulin Island ... I heard their calls and shivers ran over me (the good ones)

I love them all but it is the LOON who surfaced first :o)

An excellent 'family' bird. Not perceived as a nuisance like a bluejay. It speaks quietly, but people sit up and take notice when it calls.

Some of my fondest memories are watching Mother Loons & their babies swimming, fishing & singing their mournful song, while boating on Lake Onaping in north eastern Ontario.

Both my husband and myself would like to vote for the loon.Our favourite thing to do at the lake is to lay in bed with the window open and listen to their haunting songs all night long..they are incredibly special to us.

It's the most soothing noise when ur camping and the sun is setting

The Common Loon is a majestic bird that is an appropriate reflection of Canada in its beauty. The Common Loon can be found across Canada making it even more worthy of the designation of "National Bird".

A diving pro, is a skill that enables this specie to survive wherever they are. Water and food is life and the ability to find food in the many lakes and rivers and the Atlantic Ocean, is sufficient to enable all Canadians to be extremely proud of having a self-sufficient beautiful bird, that is found across Canada, as our National Bird. Go Common Loon.

Cottage mornings.

The loon is a majestic bird with a distinct call that is very unique to this great Canadian wilderness. It is awesome.

Not just the most beautiful bird but you can also hear him - he belongs to the top Canadian sounds in nature.

jokingly ... he is also a typical Canadian ... "squawk" a lot and when it gets hot ... hi dives.

BTW - I know loons don't squawk but since a discrete transponder code (often called a squawk code) is assigned by air traffic controllers to uniquely identify an aircraft ... I think loons do squawk.

Love the soothing sound of the Loon and that it resides pretty much in Canada.

No other bird embodies the Canadian spirit than the Common Loon. It already graces our "LOONIE" coin so lets assure this beautiful bird and its infectious call is Canadian coast to coast. Listen to the call of the Loon and be infected by this bird yourself.

I personally associate the Loon call with camping, relaxing, vacation, and nature. This is why I would like to select the Loon

The loon is familiar to all from coast to coast. It truly represents the sound of Canada.

Second.. blue jayCFFE9

The common Loon is the unwritten national bird. It is present in present in most corners in Canada and it's sound resonates across the many lakes.

the loon is a peaceful, beautiful bird with a lovely voice which symbolizes Canada in its entirety.

It's a no-brainer. The Loon is the winner, hands down.

love the loon.

I luv the call of the loon early in the morning and late in the evening.

The haunting beauty off this animal when out in the Canadian wilderness makes this a easy choice.

The Common Loon.
How can I ever forget my childhood summers at the family cottage in Dorset, Ontario. Listening to the mournful sound of the loons as they call across the misty lake. Waiting every summer to see them emerge with their babies in tow.
Even now, living in rural Ontario, I await summer just to hear the loon as it flies over my house from one lake to the other. Every year, without fail, it never lets me down.
The Loon is a Canadian icon, never to be forgotten!

Loons can be seen and heard on all lakes in Northwestern Ontario and on lakes throughout all of Canada. Their presence adds to this already beautiful and scenic country.

There is nothing more Canadian than listening to the call of the loon over the lake especially at night when everything else is quiet.

I love Commmon Loon.

Just love them........

the loon is an amazing animal and it is based on our currency which is really important.

the loon is an amazing animal and it is based on our currency which is really important.

Summer's at the lake with loons, that is Canada at it's best!

Having grown up in Ontario and spending my summers on our plentiful lakes, I knew I was home when I heard the haunting call of the loons. This is Canada!

Its haunting call, heard throughout many summers, at our LOW cottage,
is like nothing else on earth. That first glimpse of a loon, after a long winter, is thrilling.

the most beautiful an ilusif bird only a few on lales

the most beautiful an ilusif bird only a few on lales

Since I was a child whenever I hear a loon it stirs in me a feeling of being "home". I have a beautiful painting of a loon done by a painter, Greg Backwell, who hid images of cartoon characters within the painting and called it "Looney Toons".

When we came to Canada as immigrants in l950 we lived in Northern Ontario and that is where I came to love the North and the sound of the loon - such a beautiful haunting sound! I really hope that this bird remains as the emblem of Canada.

The loon's call is the sound of Canada's wilderness.

I can't imagine calling a dollar a "Snowy".

I grew up near Algonquin Park and the call of the loons will be part of me forever.

Every time I am able to escape the hectic, noisy city with my canoe to the beautiful lakes and bays of Ontario, there is no more defining a moment than hearing the mesmerizing echo of my favourite bird across the water. It is always on first contact with the loon and watching and listening to this majestic creature that form head to toe I am able to relax. I am at peace with my surroundings and in love once again with my Province and my Country.
I have been to many exotic and beautiful locations around the world but there is no doubt that the natural beauty of Canada is by far the best. And it all begins with the call of the loon.

The Loon is an graceful bird that is a joy to see when bobbing about on the waters in cottage country.

(insert sound of the loon, late night at the cottage)

The Loon is an graceful bird that is a joy to see when bobbing about on the waters in cottage country.

The loon to me has already been established as our Canadian bird by issuing a coin with a looney!

The hauntingly plaintive call of the loon is recognizable to every Canadian. Serene and beautiful .

A noble bird very much connected to its habitat, returning every year; carries its young on its back (both males and females), haunting call at night in the vast lakes of our beautiful country; featured on our dollar coin from coast to coast to coast, a powerful swimmer,

living on a lake how can you not vote for the loon always makes you feel good

The sound of the loon means canoe rides at the cottage and our beautiful lakes and rivers.

This is a no brainer..........has to be the Loon

The beautiful common loon is ubiquitous to Canadian summer vacations and September quiet on the water.

The loon has to be the most iconic Canadian bird, who isn't taken in by its mournful cry across a still Canadian lake and the answering call from the other side. To me, this is the epitome of Canada and all its beauty.

I chose the loon because it is on our one dollar piece and has been since 1987. Therefore it should also be our national bird if we put it on something as valuable as our dollar.

It's a no-brainer....the Loon should win, hands down.!

I chose the loon because it is on our one dollar piece and has been since 1987. Therefore it should also be our national bird if we put it on something as valuable as our dollar.

lOVE THE SOUND, VERY RELAXING SOUND.

I love there sound on the millions of lakes in Canada.

Common Loon with its hauntingly beautiful call truly symbolizes Canada.

I have loved the loon since childhood They are just part of Canadian cottage life

A noble bird very much connected to its habitat, returning every year; carries its young on its back (both males and females), haunting call at night in the vast lakes of our beautiful country; featured on our dollar coin from coast to coast to coast, a powerful swimmer,

Love everything about the loon, especially it's call.

Beautiful bird. Excellent swimmer. Outstanding diver. Superb Fisher. Cheerful call. Iconic. The loon is on our paper money and our dollar coin. Not reviled as is the over populated goose.

A noble bird very much connected to its habitat, returning every year; carries its young on its back (both males and females), haunting call at night in the vast lakes of our beautiful country; featured on our dollar coin from coast to coast to coast, a powerful swimmer,

No question the eerie sound of the loon at night here in Muskoka is classic.

We have loons on our cottage lake. We have fewer on our lake each year. Something is happening to them and maybe making them our National Bird will raise an awareness for the Loon. Nothing says northern Ontario or Canada like the loon.
The haunting quality of its many different calls.
The fact that we have the Loon on our one dollar coin.
I'm quite irritated when it shows up in movies and tv shows in inappropriate spots.

Represents Canada's vast and different climate and territory.

coast to coast - beautiful bird.

Canada needs a bird which we all can recognize throughout Canada.

I love the calming effect of the cry of the loon on my lake--at night

Let love the loons call at night and it is a fine species to represent Canada since it can be found in every province.

THERE ARE SO MANY GOOD CHOICES HOWEVER THE LOON BEST REPRESENTS THE QUINTESSENTIAL CANADIAN IMAGE. WONDERFUL OPEN OUTDOOR SPACES, CANOEING ON LAKES, CAMPING IN NATIONAL PARKS AND COTTAGING. THE SIGHT OF THE LOON AS WELL AS THE CALL OF THE LOON IS SOMETHING I HAVEN'T HEARD ANY WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD. THE LOON CAPTURES SO MUCH THAT IS UNIQUELY CANADIAN

I feel that the Common Loon is emblematic of the Canadian North.

I think the common loon with its haunting call best symbolizes the beauty of the abundance of natural areas in Canada that are still available for the the people of Canada to enjoy.

The call of the loon lets me know I am in a beautiful part of my homeland, Canada. That call reminds me that I am but a part of this land, and that without the wildlife and landscapes, Canada wouldn't be Canada.

I associate This bird with my trips to my family's cottage.

We hear the call of the loon often as we play golf in Western Newfoundland at the Humber Valley Golf Resort. Always stop to listen and enjoy this mournful call!

You only have to sitting by a northern lake early in the morning and hear that call!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xIaBcfL6vU

I love their song!

The Common Loon is the sound of summer , many years of camping in the north has made me come to love the Loons call . its peaceful song can be heard throughout the cottage country of Ontario. For me it means a cup of coffee and a mornings misty view on the lake with the song of the loon echoing across the water .

the Common Loon is the only bird I go camping and listen for in the middle of night from my tent - the sound of the Common Loon is magical and iconically Canadian.

Living near Lake of the Woods I hear the call of the loon almost daily. The call of the loon echoes through the still of the evening and puts the day to rest.

I lived on the lake for many years and there is nothing like the sound of
the loon. and to watch the babies following behind their mother he sight is
like no other.

There is something so majestic about the loon, they so bring nature into the picture for me and we have awesome landscape across our land. I love taking photos of them in the water and we have so much. I like it that the male and female stay together. Love listening to their call. They are beautiful birds.

A beautiful, majestic, calm, national bird!HB

The plaintive call of the loon is one of the most haunting, beautiful sounds I've ever heard. It's easily recognisable, stamped on our dollar coin, and familiar to almost all Canadians. I think it's an appropriate choice for our national bird.

Beautiful unique bird and call which
breeds and nests ONLY in Canada and is already on our $1 coin !
People have always associated the common loon with the northern lakes and woods of our country so it's already the "unofficial" national bird !

That's why it is way out front in the voting !!!

Peaceful sounding, welcoming and majestic.

Beautiful bird, beautiful call, and on our national currency.....and was getting very low in numbers at one time but has made a comeback.....

The loon is a very attractive, entertaining and interesting character. Haunting calls in the night and crazy antics on the many lakes in Canada make it a cherished and welcome contributor to the Canadian wildlife identity!

We always enjoyed the Loon at our cottage - been our favourite bird for decades

The Common Loon should be chosen as Canada's Bird because over 80 percent of the world's Loons migrate to Canada to nest every year. Their call is the most recognized and loved sound one hears on our lakes, synonymous with kicking back and enjoying nature and good times. The Loon is truly Canada's species to love and protect.

It has such a lovely call. Hearing a loon call in the morning while there is mist on the water is magical. Watched The Loon's Necklace on CBC as a child. A magical story...

I love the sound of the loon and how they carry their babies on their back.

Because it is on our money and it connects us to/with. Our country.

The loon is the bird that all Canadians identify with. They are peaceful and strikingly beautiful. Caring for their young is their prime activity. They mate for life and are adaptable to any situation.
They are much like our fantastic Canadian citizens and when we hear that call the start of each summer, it is call to relax and enjoy our families.
They also head to the warmer areas during the winter months to get warm, just like our snowbirds.

I love the soubd the loon makes on our many beautiful lakes.

The loon is found all across Canada and I look forward to seeing this beautiful bird whenever inear or on the water on lakes in the Ottawa area or wherever I am . ZBYIt's call is haunting!!!

I have grown up with e common loon on every lake where I have lived. I am a Girl Guide, Guider, still at the age of 67 and our local Girl Guide camp has the loon on the camp crest because we wake up every morning hearing the loons call.
The loon is on our dollar coin because it is so common across our country. Everyone loves the call,of the loon and when we hear it we think Canada!!!!!!
For me, the loon is the most logical symbol for our national bird. They live on all the waters of country....lakes and seas.....and is found in every province and territory. It has to be the common loon.....because it is just that.....common in Canada.

Etched in my memory from childhood on - sleeping at the cottage in the 1000 Islands...eerie and yet comforting call of the loons.

The common loon is a strong, majestic and solitude bird. It's beauty is representative of that of the Canadian landscape and it's haunting call and solutude nature is representative of our northern climate.

I learned today about voting for our national bird. I saw my choices on TV; the Loon, the Snowy Owl or even the Blue Jay. What came to mind about the Blue Jay was baseball. The Snowy Owl was the North. The Loon Canada's lakes and the early morning Loon song. So this is why I think the Loon should be Canada's national bird.

The call of a loon at dusk, echoing across the lake, is my favourite Canadian sound. I would be proud to call the common loon our national bird.

Soothing peaceful cal which reflects Canada.

Nothing compares to the wake up call of the common loon. Sweet memories of my youth of canoe trips to Québecs northern parcs with my dad and brothers resurge throughout my adulthood, to me the call of the loon is to remind us that today, a new day begins.

IThe loon is a canadian symbol, on the back of our coins,
They are such beautiful birds, who have a beautiful call
These birds mate for life they are a symbol of unity and stability
Their call is memorizing and calming

A beautiful call in the night by a lake represents the peace we all love. In daytime we can see the loons making long dives for fish under water. Black and white markings and a long beak distinguish this beautiful bird. I vote for the loon as Canada's national bird.

The Loon is so peaceful when you hear it's call.

A beautiful call in the night by a lake represents the peace we all love. In daytime we can see the loons making long dives for fish under water. Black and white markings and a long beak distinguish this beautiful bird. I vote for the loon as Canada's national bird.

The national birds of Canada should be the Loon. It's already in here. And here it should stay. Everyday people have it with them in the form of our loonie, be it a form of currency or a sign of good luck or just a coin grandparents can give our grandchildren.
When traveling around this wonderful country the most common sound we hear is the call of the loon, peaceful, tranquil, and welcoming.

Because Canadiens are Loony

I just love the loons at our cottage and associate them with Canada :)

When i go canoing early in the morning that beautiful sound that come off the lake makes me so happy.

When I seeor hear a loon it makes me happy and at peace. I smile thinking of our beautiful natural world around us.

The Common Loon represents Canadians - determined, quiet confidence, independent but social, loyal to family and friends; and be counted on when needed

Love the sound and peaceful mood the loon sets and enhances the truly Canadian cottage experience.

I always thought that the loon was our national bird. I was surprised to hear we didn't have one.
My vote goes to the loon.

Most Canadians have spent some time near a lake, and the beautiful loon calls are a welcome beacon. The sight of a female loon carrying her young is reminiscent of the caring nature of Canadians as a whole.

I vote for the Common Loon as our national bird. Significantly, it's found in all provinces and territories. It's unique and beautiful call, for some reason, never fails to catch my attention and make me feel proud to be a Canadian.

There is nothing more beautiful and zen-like than the call of the loon. He has sung me to sleep many evenings at the cottage. You will see carvings and paintings of loons at pretty much any art gallery. They are an exquisite looking bird...so unique to Canada

The sound of the common loon heard throughout my childhood is the sound of Canada.

Love to hear the loon early in the morning.

The most beautiful bird I remember growing up, enjoying the Canadian
camping experience. A call so unique. A sound I can never forget and always
a bird I connect as a true Canadian.

Love its beauty and calmness. Majority of its breeding takes place in Canada.

The Loon is indigenous to Canada and we already have a coin named after it. Time to name it as Canada's National Bird.

obvious choice

The common loon is very Canadian. They only breed in Canada. The loon call is a wonderful call to all who hear.

Once at a remote lake in Northern Ontario about 20 loons were swimming by. As they saw us they all swam closer to shore to check us out. We said hello. That was cool.

I love their intriguing call on the St. John river by my home.

It has a beautiful presence with its appearance and call. We the north !

I voted for the Loon because it's beautifull call represents one of the best memories of my chilhood. Summers spent with my grands-parents at the cottage in Nova-Scotia.

The Common Loon speaks to our incredible remote beauty and our unique work within the world.
The Common Loon is large, valuable, effective, and non-aggressive, living peacefully with it's neighbours, just like Canada.

The sound of a Loons call always sends a thrill through my body. One of the most beautiful sounds to be heard anywhere in the world.

Haunting, peaceful and Canada is its breeding ground.

A beautiful and intelligent bird with a call that is not only so unique but one that invokes your curiosity and respect no matter where you here it.
We once observed a mother loon and her two babies a lake on in Quebec and the way she was paying attention to every detail around her and kept her most determined eyes on her babies showed a level on intelligence I have not seen in many other birds. And let's not forget our loonie..

We travel 5 months of the year outside of Canada, we pull out loonies to give to people who wants to relate to Canada.
We live by a Lake in Ontario and go to sleep by the loons calling their mates , It is a romantic haunting call.
Loons are also a sign of stability, and uniity, they stay together as mates for life.
We also have a houseboat renttal company, our clients from all over the world , all are wanting to see loons, which we can gaurantee they will see and here them. They are a very beautiful bird also.

I picked the loon because they stay close to water and because we have a loon on our dollar coin that we named the Loonie.

There is nothing quite like waking up at a cottage on a beautiful summer morning to the soulful sound of a loon. Its beautiful voice breaks the silence as a reminder that one is not alone. Loons mate for life, protect their young and harm no one. They symbolize the uniqueness of their species as well as the uniqueness of being a Canadian. We are not so different.

Only in Canada. Is beautiful and mates for life representing true love.

Quiet and peaceful .it represents wilderness

A bird whose unique sound echoes across Canada's peaceful and beautiful natural environment.

We are blessed to live on Otty Lake and annually have a resident pair of loons in our bay where they nest on a small island. Unfortunately no young in 2016. Perhaps they'll celebrate 2017 with a pair of young ones?

Like our Loonie, It's very Canadian,and a beautiful symbol of Canadian nature.

Love to hear the cry of the loon. Also the First Nations peoples have beautiful legends about the Loon so choosing it as our National Bird honours them as well.

The call of the loon reminds me of home and summers at the lake.

I love the call of the loon...reminds me of northern parts of Canada.

The common loon is by the far most iconic symbol of Canadian birdlife there is. To see one or to hear its call from a distance is a reminder that you are in nature and blessed by a truly Canadian experience.

A bird whose unique sound echoes across Canada's peaceful and beautiful natural environment.

Saw/heard Loons in Northern Quebec.
Beautiful !

The loon is an example of exceptional family values - it's a treat to watch the babies riding on their parents's backs.

The loon has always been my favorite bird. I look forward to going to the lake to hear it's call.

I love the haunting cry of the loon in the summer time at many of our Canadian Lakes. Seems very Canadian to me!Q2RE

Sounds like a coyote!

Such a Canadian sound in the summer It deserves to be our bird!

There is something about hearing the call of the Loon that sends a warm feeling of welcome. It's as if the Loon is saying you are truly in the outdoors and in the wilderness. This is what happens when people respect and care for their land. The call gives me a sense of serenity, peace and the feeling of awe. When God created this world he gave each of us a part to play in our world and he put the Loon and it's call in the right environment. The Loon represents calm, peace and style. A beautiful bird to represent our land.

The call of the loon is a Canadian sound!

All birds listed are fabulous however the sound of a loon on a sun setting lake is the best serenity sound ever!

Obviously the sound of a loons call while camping by a lake or at a cottage is a soothing comforting evening song - much like a mother tucking her little child to bed. Seeing one in day, slowly passing on the surface of a calm lake is just as comforting of the world of nature all being in order.

An amazing mysterious bird. Beautiful with a distinctive, mournful cry.

I love their beauty and grace, and their call is so peaceful.

Beautiful and serene loyal

An amazing mysterious bird. Beautiful with a distinctive, mournful cry.

The loon's call ,penetrates to your heart .

Love it!

I'm fortunate enough to live on Lake Simcoe and am regularly treated to a family of loons in front of my house. It is such a privilege to be this close to such a graceful, quintessentially Canadian animal. I feel very Canadian every time I see them. Thank you. Jen

Loon - for sure

loon is a beautiful & mysterious & is very peaceful

Loons are great swimmers...just like Canada's swim team in the recent Olympics!

Beautiful haunting call. Lovely bird.

Hands down, the Loon should be our Bird.

Loon

I hear the loons every day. They are so peaceful and are just so CanadIan.

Loons are great swimmers...just like Canada's swim team in the recent Olympics!

Peaceful, calm with a unique call. Truly Canadian.

Their haunting call is so magnetic and typifies Canada.

The presence of the loon at our country home is an iconic symbol of the peacefulness and serenity of where we live. We look forward to their call and their flapping of wings overhead each time we visit. It is the epitome of contentment of home. So Canadian.

The loon is a majestic protected bird. It is often depicted in paintings and native crafts.

From the early days of camping with my parents, to a recent outing in Newfoundland, the call of a loon just seems to evoke find memories of good times.

The common Loon is distinctive in appearance and sound and reflective of Canada ' s northern regions.

Common loon. So simple yet so beautiful. I see the loon everywhere from my money to my swimming pool! Canada and the loon ...two beauties 😘😘😘

It's iconic & is on the $1 coin.

The loon has been the unofficial National Bird of Canada for years they set examples of strength
Loyalty snd just plain Canadian

It's on the loonie, hense it's nickname.

It's on our dollar, for crying out loud. There's no bird more Canadian than this one. (PS - I know my address says United States, but I'm Canadian. I promise!)

beautiful, big bird

The Loon is an obvious choice. With thousands of lakes in Canada and the loon being a bird we see on lakes I think there is no question which bird should be our national bird!

I believe the Common loon represents this country vary well...and most Canadians already recognize unofficially as our national bird.

The range of the loon covers almost all of Canada, seawater and fresh, lakes and coasts. It is one of the oldest species, almost archaic, and has trouble with small spaces. It takes a loon a long time to get airborne, and it needs a lengthy runway. And even if you can't see it, its voice can haunt you. All very Canadian traits....

Who doesn't know the loon in Canada? It already graces our money. The haunting sound of their call is instantly recognizable and evokes memories for many of us of lakeside campfires and misty mornings. Kind of a no brainer!

What other bird could it be? The sight, the sound, the serenity, the strength, all say Canada.

It is a beautiful bird that is common in many places in Canada
It represents Canadians as it is peaceful, simple, strong & majestic

The bird makes me think of clarity, beauty, peace and endurance

I lived with loons at my cottage for 42 years and felt great joy at the wonderful. Mournful call early in the morning.they swam very close to my dock. Such feelings of pleasure at every sighting.

As a child my parents introduced my to Canada travelling from sea to sea. (We never made it to the territories). And while we saw the differences i can always remember waking in the tent in the morning hearing the loons.

The loon fits with other iconic wild life (beaver,caribou,moose,polar bear, grisly bear) that visitors to Canada recognize as be true imagery that IS Canada

I am a canoeist. The sweet haunting calls of loons represent to me the wilderness of this great country.

I'VE ALWAYS THOUGHT THE LOON WAS OUR NATIONAL BIRD . ITS HAUNTING SONG, THE FACT ITS WATER FOWL ONLY INCREASES MY REASON AS WATER IS A LIMITED COMMODITY YET CANADA IS KNOWN WORLDWIDE FOR THE AMOUNT OF RIVERS,LAKES AND STREAMS WE HAVE AND HOW FORTUNATE WE ARE HERE.

There is truly nothing more Canadian than the haunting call of the loon. Especially in the early morning mist at the break of dawn. Sends a shiver of joy through my Canadian soul every time.

Quiet and majestic. it's call is a comforting sound on our lake. A bird that has existed for a very long time. And it's beautiful to look at.

The Common Loon can be found all across Canada, is represented on our coins, has a unique and beautiful call. Perfect choice to unite the Country.

There is nothing more that reflects the natural environment then listening to the call of the Loon, when camping in the Canadian Wilderness.

I have lived my whole life in Ontario's "lake country". A loon call is the best wake-up call at any hour. They are regal, strong and classy...very Canadian. When you have a chance to observe them, summer after summer, you have to respect their quiet presence, their unique calls, and admire their family dynamic. I vote for the LOON !

Loon of course its always been symbolic of canada

I've only seen some of the birds on your list. While growing up in Ottawa in the fall, I've seen the goose flying south, that was a great a great sight to see and hear. Once they flew by, that was it, show over.

But one early morning, waking up at our summer place having a cup of coffee, I heard a loon across the pond ( lake ). It really made my morning while listing to that loon.

That's why I pick the loon.

The enchanting call of the Common Loon is like no other. Everyone knows it & loves it's sheer beauty. We are always thrilled to hear it's call, early in the morning when the low fog is still on the lake. No matter how many times we see one we always say "oh, look, there's a Loon". They are a gift to all who see & hear them. They are on our Loonies and deserve to be our National Bird.
Thank you for the opportunity to contribute an opinion.

Carolyn Johnston 🍁

They make the most beautiful sound in the wilderness.

This bird makes the most relaxing sound in the world.

Always brings fond memories of time spent at our family cottage.

My favorite sound in the summer, day or night.

The Common Loon is important to me, as I am from northern Ontario, but now living in the south of the province. When I travel north, it is the sound of the loon that reminds me of who I am, a proud northerner. I can watch a loon fish a quiet bay for hours, and never tire of timing the dives, and admiring its beauty and skill.

i like the bird

The sound of a loon on a quiet lake is so serene and represents Canada's rich natural resources.

The loon is the epitome of Canada's wilderness. It's haunting call gives voice to the soul of a great country.

The loon is a large majestic bird with a beautiful calming call. If you have ever been paddling and had one pop up beside you, you know how large they are. I have always loved the sound of their call. It says the great outdoors of our beautiful country to me. Strong, calm, wild and free. What could be more Canadian?

I heard the call of the Loon before I ever saw one and I find its song so very beautiful, haunting and strong, echoing through the distance.
On many lakes in Canada,even close to big cities, you can feel closer to nature because of this magnificent creature.
When you see a Loon floating on the surface, sleek in black and white, it belies its heft under the water.
Though all Canada's birds are equal in importance, the Loon would represent a good voice to our Nation's uniqueness, beauty, strength and nature.

The Common Loon is such a regal looking bird and their call is - to my mind - a welcoming one. Since they are found in every Province and Territory of our Country, it is the best choice.

The Common Loon is a great choice for Canada's national bird. Not only is it displayed on our unique dollar coin, it is widely seen across the entire country. The call of the loon is a wonderful reminder of the beauty and symbol of our breathtaking lakes and waterways covering our vast nation. It's majestic features are so stunning. The black and white markings are so distinct and unusual and are always appreciated by all who have the pleasure of spotting this spectacular bird.

The Common Loon reflects our wilderness and the song of the North.

What could more Canadian than the sound of the Loon as you wake up beside a lake when you are out camping. It is truly the sound of nature which is what Canada is all about.

I love the sound of their call.

The Common Loon is personal for me. Before our children were born my wife and I canoed and camped in Algonquin Park's remote lakes. The ever present Common Loon and its mournful song left nostalgic memories for us both. The Common Loon is also a family oriented bird carrying the young on its back before they are able to swim on their own. A very Canadian thing to do.
Besides our dollar coin already has the Loon's picture on it.

The loon is iconic and its call is the epitome of the Canadian wilderness. A picture of a loon immediately conjures up pictures of Cananda - internationally!

It just isn't summer without hearing the loon. Their call is most beautiful and calming. It is the north and I always smile when I hear their call.

When one thinks of Canada with its many lakes and rivers, one instinctively hears the call of the loon.

BTW, I heard on the news today that this was the last day to vote for our national bird. Since I had never heard of this project, I am assuming that not many outside of your society had heard of it. Although you will come up with a choice, I don't believe the winner can truly be voted our national bird with such a small sampling of the country voting on it.

I just love their call. It's on our money. I have seen them in Calgary and here in Newfoundland.

Very nice birds

Great morning bird

The common loon represents the wilds of Canada to me. A loon calling is also the iconic sound of Canada.

Love the sound of the. Common Loon when out for a walk near a pond , or on the walking on the beach here in Newfoundland, they stay on the water for long periods of time , then they can disappear in seconds, into the water , and you not see them for awhile , may come up. Long ways away ,
Common loon has been around for a long time ,

From my childhood I have heard the cry of the Loon and it still thrills me.

As a child growing up in Northwestern Ontario, the loon call was a common melancholy sound that hovered over the lakes. It was a call that most children mimicked after many hours of hyperventilating into cupped hands in attempts to respond to the haunting call from the calm waters. The loon is majestic and a symbol of beauty, independence, determination and invites communication with others. Canadians are hard-working, open and accepting of all cultures. The 'loonie' is iconic. Why wouldn't we vote for the Loon as our National bird? It just makes sense.

I vote for the Common Loon because it is a continuous presence in the lives of an enormous number of Canadians. It's haunting call is unique as well as beautiful. When abroad, I have always shared the sound of the loon with people who want to get an impression of life here. It makes a perfect ringtone...signalling to anyone nearby that you are Canadian! For a long time I used the original "Hockey Night In Canada" ringtone which was a head turner throughout the world, and the loon call is equally effective in identifying the Canucks in a crowded area wherever I am in the world.

I have a short essay on the loon. The loon is found all across Canada, and is not exclusive to a few areas of our country. Its haunting call in the evenings stirs one's emotions in a way that only the loon can, creating a strange loneliness deep in the heart, forever searching. This, to me, is Canada…a strange, lonely land, where its inhabitants are forever searching.

The sound of the loon drifting across a lake is quintessentially Canadian, it's the sound of summer. From my first camping trip after arriving in Canada 30 years ago to my most recent visit to a cottage the sound of the loon is the sound you need to hear to know you've arrived.

The call of the loon on the lakes is a haunting one and says Canada to me.

I canoe a lot. Seeing and hearing the Loon is a welcome encounter on any canoe trip, and gives you that sense of being in the wilderness.

The common loon is the quintessential Canadian bird, returning to our lakes each summer where they raise their families and enchant us with their calls.

I love being Canadaian and I love my loon - the beautiful, soothing sound they make is better than any sleeping pill when you can't sleep - their haunting sound fills me with peace every time I hear it and no matter where I am in our country when I hear my loons calling, I know I am home.

This is great however We should have a Canadian national animal vote. Which animal represents Canada best , include All animals from a beaver to a polar bear?
Thank you have a great day

I feel as though this bird should be the bird of Canada because it is always heard up north and has a beautiful song, I relate this bird to Canada as well because it is on our coins.

Il représente la nature de nos lacs à protéger

I have always loved the Common Loon and especially enjoy hearing it's call during the summer while at the cottage. This week while canoeing at the lake, we spotted "our loon's " silhouette and silently paddled towards it but lost out when it took a dive. Each time we sit on the deck that overlooks the lake, we search for a loon. This bird always reminds of peace, relaxation and the tranquility of our country's natural beauty. What a wonderful selection for Canada's National Bird.

Sue Hymus

The sound of the loon's call echoes the peace and contentment I feel while spending some of my favourite moments in Canada, whether camping in the backcountry of Algonquin park or summers on the many lakes of Canada.

Very pretty and peaceful on our lakes.

We already have the loon on our " Loony" It should be our National bird !...

We live on Round Lake, Havelock, Ontario. The call of the loon in spring brings the promise of good weather and there is nothing that compares to the call of the loon on a quiet summers night. I could go on and on about the loon because we watch them from their arrival to when they leave our lake. A magnificent, majestic bird.

The Loon is a beautiful, majestic bird. It has distinctive markings and a haunting call. Hearing a Loon when on or near a lake is a spiritual experience! It connects us to nature. Calming, peaceful!!! And our precious Loon can be found across Canada.

The sound that first comes to mind is the Loon.
And the flight is magestic.

I grew up going to a cottage on Charleston Lake in a cove called Loon Bay. Waking up every morning to the beautiful call of the loons became synonymous with Canadian nature and the outdoors for me. As I grew up, many people I spoke with felt the same way when I mentioned the cottage and it's loons. For a country with so many lakes, what better bird to represent Canada?

Sorry but I always thought the lion was our national bird!

My love of the Common Loon goes back many years of my life. It's haunting call at dusk to family members would and still does, give me pleasure and comfort while laying in my tent at night. This bird draws us as a people together with it's striking markings and magnificent profile bobbing atop of a lake. One can always recognize a loon as it sits higher in the water and can be easily recognized.

As a proud Canadian and with my love of the outdoors and the proud synbol of nature, feel this is the best choice for as our National Bird! Let's declare The Common Loon as the Best Choice!

I was surprised to find out that Canada does not have a national bird. I figured that since we named our dollar after the common loon, that it was our national bird. It would seem odd to me, not to declare the loon the national bird, since we already have it as a symbol of our money. If the Canada Goose became the national bird, would we change the dollar to the "goose"? or goosey? Just a thought.

Although I make light of the project, I sincerely appreciate the Royal Canadian Geographcal Society for leading such a worthwhile project. Not only will be end up with a National Bird, however it allows people like me to learn more about a wonderful and species that are so important to Canadian life.

Whatever the outcome, Canada will have a new National Bird, something to be proud of and a symbol of our great country.

I feel very proud whenever I hear a Loon while camping in Northern Ontario.To me it signifies a still wild and pristine environment that i truly hope we be able will enjoy forever.

The call of the Loon on a lake in the evening just says Canada.

It seems to cover the whole of Canada and as Canada is so large and wild the Loon's call is synonymous with the wilderness.

Loonie on $1 coin mentioned & used daily

We share our lake with these amazing birds all summer each year and their call is always the things out guests remark on.

The Loon is the greatest symbol of Canada's wild and reminds me of the poem by AJM Smith entitled The Lonely Land

Loons rock

Le huard est le symbole par excellence de la beauté naturelle du Canada et illustre bien nos valeurs concernant la protection et la préservation de la santé de nos lacs. Déjà reconnu comme symbole du Canada depuis la création de la pièce de monnaie d'un dollar, je crois qu'il devrait être sacré 'oiseau officiel" du Canada.

Although many of the birds on the list would represent Canada well, only one is on our national one dollar coin. The loon is also the only bird that can transport you immediately to the northern woods by its sound alone: close your eye, hear the call and you're there.

I think these are a very soothing bird, the call across the lake is beautiful.

The call of the common loon is a symbol of the Canadian wild. It reminds of the pristine environment with clean air, clean water and away from the humans.

It was a hard call for me because I believe both the loon and the Canadian goose are the two birds that come to mind when I think of our beautiful country. That are universal across Canada for me in our wild spaces. Hiking or camping hearing the loon's call or seeing the Canadian goose floating on a lake or flying above, nesting and calling. But I had to go with the loon because I love their call so very much

The loon has the most haunting and lovely call. It evokes a totally peaceful feeling in me. In so many ways it personifies Canada.

Their call is just a national song.

The loon cry is distinctive and echoes through many Canadian vistas, inviting you to explore our nature. Instant recognition

When we think of our summers that we spend at our cottage on a small lake, the cry of the loon instantly comes to mind. We've been so fortunate to have loons on our lake forever.

Just last month our lake president retired after forty years. I gave him a Loon Coin from the Canadian Mint because I knew that the cry of the loon would stay with him forever. The loon is such a symbol of life on a Canadian lake.

The haunting call of the loon as the sun sets over an isolated lake is the best experience you can have.

The sound of the loon is so unique. If chosen, anyone hearing the loon call will immediately think of Canada.

one awesome bird eh!

nothing more Canadian than the haunting call of the loon

The sound of the loon is so unique. If chosen, anyone hearing the loon call will immediately think of Canada.

Canada's common loon strikes me as being a true survivor in a world that is plagued with global warming and pollution.

The call of the common loon IS the sound of my Canada.

The haunting call of the Loon is truly Canadian!

On one of our coins seems fit it bécotes are national bord,plus love his song

To me the Loon represents the true Canadian life. As an immigrant to Canada and visiting the countryside, the Loon is that distinguishable call that just signifies you are in cottage country which in itself is a truly Canadian experience.

Sound at cottage says Canada. On our $1 coin and mentioned daily

Walking through the quiet forest and hearing the call of the Common Loon will always make me think of home, here in our great nation of Canada.

The call of the loon always stops me in my tracks and speaks to the surrounding beauty of our land.

Quite simply, the haunting call of the loon symbolizes our Northern landscapes and identity.

Nothing compares to the haunting call of the Common Loon to endorse our Canadian identity!

I've heard their calls at night at our cabin since I was a kid, that is Canada for me!

If it's good enough to grace our dollar coin, it certainly can be Canada's national bird.
I know that the Canada goose has the country's name but Canadians shouldn't be represented by one of the dirtiest birds in nature.

The Loon has always been the sound of the North. A true representation of Canada.

The loon is awesome!! Watching them is a great experience. ...and listening to their call is very cool....

The sound of the loon is iconic Canadian wilderness, yet even city dwellers recognize it

When I think about the Canada wild I hear the loon call

That haunting call just can't be beat

I see the summer breeding grounds cover most all of Canada so this is why I voted for this icon of the back country lakes.

Picture this: you've just paddled your way through the wavy waters of Waskesiu Lake in the blazing sunshine, you've made a few tricky portages that almost, but not quite, killed the fun vibes of the day, and you've finally made it to your campsite. After the obligatory s'mores and cold brews, you're settled into your tent and although you gave it the good ol' college try, a few mosquitos buzz in your ear. As you try and fail to get comfortable with a few errant roots sticking into your back, you hear the most Canadian sound of them all - the unforgettable melancholic cry of the loon. Now its a perfect day. #GTs

Hauntingly calls and Canadian beautiful

Signifying the season of summer, the common loon has a special place in the hearts of most Canadians. The loon is as Canadian as hockey, the Group of Seven and Tim Hortons.

The loon has the most haunting, beautiful call to its mate.

I love to see this bird in many different settings.

The most beautiful and haunting sound. There is nothing like the sound of the loon call as the mist rises from a Canadian Lake.

when i think of Canada's Birds I think of the Common Loon . Hear them even in the city

The common loon is simply a Canadian icon. Just imagine: canoeing in Algonquin amid the autumnal leaves to the sounds of the swishing paddle, whistling breeze, and the call of the loon. It's a scene straight from a Thom Thomson painting. Also, an avid birder I know is a grey jay fanatic and won't stop talking about it so I'm voting for the loon out of spite.

I tried to make a case for any other bird, but the loon is undeniable. The haunting call on a calm lake surrouded by trees is Cananda.

Any Canadian who has spent any time outdoors, especially overnight; or like myself, living in the wilderness 24/7 12 months of the year, has been hypnotized and lulled by the call of the Loon, at dawn and dusk.

There is nothing more iconic than camping in Canada and waking up to the sound of the loons on a northern Lake.

Voted for the common loon.

Je vote pour Plongeons Huard

There call is the voice of the North, strong and free.

There call is the voice of the North, strong and free.

I just love the sound of a loon.

I am a participant in the CLLS for 20 years now , & on our Horseshoe Lake, near Minden, Ont., the property owners are now aware of protecting loon families-by keeping distance from chicks/parents & 3 loon platforms have been built as we are a draw down lake for Trent water system, so lake fluctates
i have written each year for 20 years re loon awareness with good response & more responsibility
MY quandry is that I support AS WELL the bl. Ccapped chickadee as they do not leave us each winter but are like us & stay all winter! hardy !!

I enjoy listening to the call of the loon.

Great bird also symbolizes Canada's land and currency

Cet oiseau offre un chant très agréable et caractéristique. Il inspire la nature sauvage. On devrait préserver ses aires de nidification et faire connaître les besoins de cet oiseau pour s'assurer qu'il prospérera au pays.

the common loon is Canada in spirit
it is wild, loves water, loves to mate and dance
it is a northern critter will all the Northern Vigour that entails
it is shy and modestWBE but with a haunting spirited call when it feels the need
it is lovely coloured bird.
it ism my favourite symbol of the true north strong and free

I just love their calls and they are on our lake at our country house in Morin Heights, QC and will swim within about 3 metres of us. Just a lovely creature.

I am a Canadian citizen.

Common Canadian

Common Loon we love the most
Can be seen from coast to coast
Across this land gliding on lakes
All across Canada the route it takes

Nesting on islands surrounded by sea
This bird Canadian easy to see
Floats so easily dives for fish
Just as common our Friday dish

A hoot and yodel is its holler
Permanent mark Canadian dollar
Sleek pointed beak head black as kettle
Hardly seen amongst the nettle

Around its neck color green black
Extending wings or tucked in back
Whichever way Canadian beauty
Protecting this bird it is our duty

Reason why this national treasure
No other bird can even measure
Common Loon across this land
Without doubt a Canadian brand

Think Canadian anytime soon
Can't be done without the Loon
Maple leaf loved in a song
Common Loon Canadian strong

I love the sound it makes

I love the call of the Loon. For me it represents the sound of a Canadian summer at the lake.

When I was younger my family and I used to go camping at a lake not far from where I live. I always saw loons swimming about on the lake. It makes me think of home, and home is Canada. It would be awesome for us to have the Common loon as our bird!

On behalf of the loons, we humbly request that people stop calling Donald Trump a loon. Thank you.

There is no bird as hauntingly majestic as our loon! One of the loons on our family cottage lake had twins this year. We were as happy as if one of our own family members had had a successful birth!

It's cry is known world wide. A cry for the week the hurt and the disabled.

Calling loon is an incredible sound to hear...I was lucky to hear it for a few times. It is very amazing experience. Unforgettable.

J'aime le Plongeon huard comme choix d'oiseau national pour representer le Canada.
A cause de son cri, son allure fiere et independante et quand on l'a vu et entendu une fois,
On ne l 'oublie jamais......

I had the great fortune to see and hear loons when I used to go to my Aunt & Uncle's cottage at Curve Lake. I find them fascinating and I think their plaintiff call is the most peaceful and serene I have ever heard. To me it is the trademark of a vacation in Ontario (my experience) and anywhere else throughout Canada where they can be seen and heard.

When I think of Canada, in all its natural beauty, in places like Algonquin Provincial Park, as well as in throughout other local gems of the Canadian wilderness, along the waterfront, I am always brought back to the striking call of the Common Loon. Although I love birds, the Loon, to me represents the silent journey that is often undertaken in many parts of the Canadian wilderness; The journey that allows us to look within ourselves, as we grow, day- by -day with our abundant, progressive, beautiful and welcoming country. If I am not mistaken, the Common Loon is also found, to my knowledge, only in North America, while many other birds on the list are found in other parts of the world.

Our family enjoys fishing in Northern Ontario. One of the first things we like to hear is the call of the Loon. After the call we know for sure that we are exactly where we want to be and crane our necks to watch how far the loon can travel under water and also note that usually their mate is near by. They are such a beautiful bird and deserve my vote.

The sound of the Loon echoing off the lake for me, is one of the many sounds of Canada.
The haunting lament against the beautiful, rustic landscape of Canada soothes the soul.

The Common Loon represents Canada. It is one of very few bird species where the male and female mate for life. It symbolizes trust, honesty and integrity.

Its song is lonely, resonant, peaceful and almost haunting when one hears it across open northern Canadian lakes and rivers.

I have been in every province in Canada and I have seen loons in every one! They are elegant and mysterious and lovely to see and listen to.

Common loon seen in the wild is the most beautiful bird with great family values. This should represent Canada.

reminds me of northern lakes and trees in autumn and canoeing- all pretty Canadian images. Can find them on streams as well, so getting a bit more urbanized. The haunting call is so distict.

Being fortunate to spend time at a friend's cottage I fell in love with the loons calling each other early in the morning when the mist was rising on the lake and I felt so proud and alive to be a part of this Canadian morning.

The Loon already(unofficially)represents Canada,in my opinion.It has my vote!

The sound of the loon can go on forever, very peaceful!

The haunting call of the loon means summer in Canada for most of us.

No essay, but the Loon is SOOOOO Canadian

There is nothing so haunting as the call of the loon. Although there are loons in the US as well, for me they are quintessentially Canadian and my breath catches every time I hear one.

Its an awesome bird!!

I spent many years as an exploration geologist in the northern areas of Canada and I always loved seeing the common loons on the lakes I camped beside. There is nothing more Canadian than watching a loon with young riding on its back. I love hearing that distinctive call of the loon on a peaceful lake in the middle of nowhere.

Loon is a beautiful bird and it does not have a bad reputation as the geese plus it is also our Canadian dollar

Many lakes in Canada...many loons. Canadian bird for shore !

First of all, I would like to know why people from the US can vote.

The loon is related to our 'loonie' is it not? Just a joke. It's a great bird with a great sound and appears to be all over Canada, which is important. It should not be like the maple leaf on our flag that really represents only part of our country. Whichever bird wins, I have my fingers crossed that it is not the annoying, messy, pushy Canada Goose. The Canada Goose does not have any of supposed Canadian traits. The loon does-it is reserved and doesn't like a lot of attention-isn't that what we're known for?

That Loon call though...

This was a very easy choice for me. Growing up doing all things outdoors... this was basically the sound of nature to me. Hearing the sound of the loon was what relaxed me, it gave me such joy to hear that sound while on the trap line or hunting with my family or even just relaxing on the side of the river.

The Loon, hands down needs to become Canada's bird.

Canada is a vast nation, covering many different land and seascapes. Though there are several species of bird that call many of these different 'scapes home, there is no other bird, besides the Common Loon, that is more synonymous with the values of Canadians and our nation.

From Prince Edward Island to British Columbia, and even as far north as our 3 Territories, the Common Loon can be spotted in Canada's Wetlands from coast to coast to coast.

Even the sound of the loon has become iconic to our people. From an early age, children are shown how to imitate their call; by warming their palms, cupping their hands together, and blowing through our thumbs; we're practicing to communicate with this Canadian icon.

If it weren't enough for our people to imitate them, they have been immortalized; stamped in metal coins, on our most basic unit of currency: the Canadian Dollar. The imprint of the bird has become inherent in our language, that we do not call it the correct 'one dollar coin' but the informal 'loonie'.

Lastly, much like how diverse our land and people are, the Common Loon is diverse in its' skills and abilities. Though mainly known for its' aquatic capabilities: diving and swimming, they are capable of flight, as is typical during migration, and also frequent land for mating and nesting. This diversity in the life of a loon runs parallel to the life of Canadians, and is ever present, no matter your area or age.

In summary, the Common Loon is the bird that best exemplifies the spirit of Canadians, and is best suited to represent Canada as our National Bird for its' range of habitat, its' diversity in their aspects of life, and its' impact and frequency within our heritage.

I think the loon would be great as the national bird. It has such a beautiful call, and we always look forward to hearing the loon when we get out doors in Canada.

Loons are so different, beautiful, their call is so weird that it grabs me...
I could select more but to me Loons are typically Canadian, they are so well "dressed" always elegant.
Magdolna Szabo

The Common loon's cry in the morning and evening is something I yearn to hear; I love their colour and stance.

What is more Canadian that sitting at the cottage and listening to the Loons and the Loonie. :)

This was a hard voice when I saw all the birds - but my first instinct was the Loon. I love the call of the loon in the evening across our lakes.- the enchanting warble with a hint of mystery. The way they carry their young, although not the only water bird to do so, is a pleasure to watch. I have had the privilege to witness a loon gathering and dance ( as I don't know what else to call it) one evening showing how they relate to one another and looked to be having a lot of fun! We see them on the surface seeming to float - yet they can dive to great depths- which reflects what the Canadian personality ( though we are often misunderstood) is all about. We too look like we are calm, complacent, not too emotive - yet there are great depths for our love of our country that are tapped into when someone least expects it ( note the French's ketchup switch!). The loon's colours are equally representative - not showy - but distinctive - like our flag. Lastly, why do I vote for the loon? It goes back to one beautiful early morning swim - I had the lake to myself and the loon who swam with me!

it is the most beautiful bird around, it's presence is always seen in the lakes and from my home here on the ocean. There is nothing more beautiful than to hear the call of the loon. This should without a doubt be Canada's national bird. I photo this beautiful bird over and over again.

I think the common loon makes a lovely noise and is so beautiful.

Nothing says Canada like the call of the loon...........

I have loved the call and the wild image of the common loon since childhood and remember watching "How the Loon Got its Necklace" at birthday parties. (I'm a senior). On Saturday, July 31st our lake stewardship group received a talk by a participant in the Common Loon Survey. She reported that 95% of the breeding pairs of the common loon are in Canada. Nuff said. And unlike the sugar maple they are found in every province and territory. Nuff said times 2.

There is absolutely nothing like hearing Loons calling to each other on a lake, especially at night. It is such a mournful type sound that resonants deep within the spirit. It is a great joy to fall asleep listening to their beautiful calls.

The haunting call of the loon, their faithfulness.

It's been identified as being part of Canada through the dollar coin, through documentaries seen on TV. I simply love the nostalgic and melodious sound it makes! Besides, the Loon mostly lives in our beautiful country, Canada!

A truly national bird since it is found throughout Canada, the common loon is one of the most recognizable birds in the country--millions of likenesses on coins being a great promotional device. The fact that its summer range is very close to a map of Canada itself (plus Alaska and minus the more northern arctic archipelago)
It's mournful call is likewise iconic. I have heard it on the Shushwaps lakes, in Ontario's cottage country, and camping in national parks (de la Mauricie and Kejimkujik). There is always one or two diving on our lake in the summer by the cottage.
They appear clean and well dressed--suitable for black tie events--and have no destructive tendencies or bad press to keep them out of the running.

Nutshell:
Almost everyone recognises them.
Almost everyone recognises their call.
Nobody has any issues with them.

Few enough people ever actually seen snowy owls in person.

PS Anything but the Canada goose please. No one who votes for it has ever had a group of them on their property for so much as 5 minutes. I'd rather barbeque it than clean up after it!

The call of a Loon is one of the most enchanting sounds. The sound instills the very essence of nature and remotness,deeply etched in the heart and soul of all Canadians.

nothing sounds more Canadian then the sound of a loon when your alone near a lake and the only sound is a loon.

I really like the sound of the Common Loon

For us loon is the integral part of interior camping package. The lake without a loon is a "dead" lake. Seeing them on the lake from our canoe or shore always brings smile. Hearing their call is a treat and gives us a warm and fuzzy feeling that everything is well in the wilderness kingdom. I cannot imagine paddling trip without sighting loons. Long live the Common Loon!

Its an icon of Canadian wilderness,period!

A beautiful graceful bird with a haunting melancholy sound.

The common loon defines Canada in every aspect.

I actually believe all loon species should be the official birds of Canada, but I will settle for the common loon since it's the one most of us get to see and hear. I grew up listening to the loons in the early evening on my cottage lake in Northern Ontario. Absolutely haunting! One of my greatest thrills was to see yellow-billed loons on a small lake in northern Nunavut while performing field work a few years ago. I have subsequently observed some overwintering in Vancouver where I live now, but it's certainly not the same thrill as your first encounter. By far the most beautiful of the birds is the Arctic loon. They are beyond regal! I have been lucky enough to see a few in my travels, but it's never enough.
I do not get to hear the call of the loon anymore, living on the west coast. To be honest, watching the loons overwintering on ocean swells, in drab grey plumage is a bit underwhelming, but at least I will always have the memory of their majestic calls. Hopefully I will be able to head north in the near future to experience the fullness of their beauty again soon.

The loon has such a distinct call and is a very beautiful bird. We have the loon on our one dollar coin so the loon makes sense to have as our national bird.

Of all the native (and migratory) birds that call Canada home, for all (or most) of their lives. There is no other bird, whose call is so distinct, that could ever be confused with any other bird. The call of the Loon over a quiet lake is something that has given me goose bumps every time I have heard it.
The Loon is an excellent parent, when the baby chicks are learning to swim and become tired, they crawl on to the back of one of its' parents and rest. A perfect example of family helping family.

I grew up at a lake in northern BC and the loones on the lake were what made the evenings so calm and peaceful,just listening to them was so relaxing. They are so beautiful and would make a great represent Canada very well.

To me the sound of the loon when you are in the outdoors close to a lake is so refreshing and says Canada......and, living where we do the Canada goose is a nuisance and leave calling cards everywhere. :-)

I'll give ya two loonies for a toonie

The common Loon is found all across Canada...I've witnessed it in Bisset Creek, Ontario and in the harbour of Botwood, Newfoundland. it is known to all of us.

Nothing says 'home' like hearing the call of loons across a misted lake at twighlight.

This bird is wide-spread across much of Canada, and t's haunting call is so evocative of the Canadian wilderness.

The Common Loon should be Canada's national bird because of it's unique characteristics. The bird is beautiful to begin with it's coloring and shape. The loon has a distinctive glossy black head highlighted by the unique white necklace around the throat and the black and white checkered back make this bird a truly extraordinary choice for the National bird of Canada. On the water, these birds are very adept at swimming and diving with their streamlined body and large webbed feet. To top it off, the voice of the loon is one of a kind and without equal - from the 'howl' to the emotional, vibrating 'tremolo' sounds to one who has heard them are truly unforgettable. The Common Loon deserves the honor of being Canada's national bird.

I most enjoy my memories of the loon nesting and singing at Lake Rosalind when I lived there in the 1970's and 1980's. A beautiful bird.

This bird is in every part of Canada. It represents also water and we are surrounded by it, and we have many lakes too.
It also has the character of most Canadians, calm and proud.

Simply put...the loon's call moves me every time I hear it. If I had a bad day, the sound calms me and I am reminded of how important nature is to the human psyche. I am fortunate to hear it from time to time and when I lived in Kenora, ON, I heard it daily. One can never tire of hearing a loon call.

I love their mournful sound and feel they may become an endangered species.

The common loon has a distinctieve call that is strongly associated with the wilderness. These birds are a large and majestic presence on most lakes throughout our vast country. Both parents are attentive to their young taking turns to feed and protect although they are not aggressive. The common Loon truly embodies what it is to be Canadian.

I am 67 and the Loon has always been Canada's song of nature and a real life experience to see as well as hear them in the wild.

Majestic and Beautiful, represents Canada, in that it is usually docile and friendly, but could seriously mess you up if it wanted to. A great hunter and good ambassador when visiting other countries. Ha

You know it's spring time when the common loon starts to nest in the lakes of Canada. This beautiful bird has the most wonderful song to sing all through the day. I feel the Loon should be Canada's National Bird because of it's sheer beauty and magical presence.

The Common Loon has always, in my mind been our National Bird. In the evening, as we sit on the deck of our summer home on Manitoulin Island overlooking Lake Kagawong, we listen to the relaxing sound of the Loons. It is beautiful.
Unfortunately, although very beautiful, The Canada Goose have become much to plentiful and very messy not only here in Canada but in the United States as well. The are NOT a well loved bird.

As far as I know, Common Loons live across Canada. We can all identify them as "ours".

Loons make pretty sounds when they're trying to get some and that's something that I want Canada to be known for.

Also, f*** geese.

The loon has not only a distinctive look but also a distinctive sound. It is graceful, beautiful and is found in some of our most beautiful natural areas. When I think of the Canada Goose on the other hand, all I think of is poop! Sorry - it's true! Yes, it has our name in it but it is a nasty, dirty bird.

I love it's haunting song

The Common loon is known for it's haunting and beautiful call. It touches the very soul. Everyone that has heard it loves it.

The call of the common loon is what one associates with the beautiful Canadian wilderness. It is a beautiful yet fairly meek creature that accurately represents Canadians.

The only thing more canadian than the common loon is poutine, and I hate poutine.

There is nothing in the world as beautiful as the haunting call of the loon. Sitting by a lake with the fog rising off the water and hearing the echoing call of the loon stirs the imagination and the wonder that living in Canada allows.Having the Loon as our national bird indicates to the rest of the world what Canada is about and what it has to offer. Beauty, majesty, wildness, peace and adventure.

The common loon has an distinguished and somewhat haunting cry; it is simply beautiful.

It's haunting yet smoothing call alone is enough to garner my vote.

I love the call of the Loon. The sound represents to me the big, open spaces of Canada. The simplicity and beautiful colour of the Loon is unique.

A presence and of course a call that constantly reminds me of the wildness and the enormity of Canada. Every time I hear its call I feel a personal aloneness and also a fondness for this beautiful, and very much one of a kind, country I am so fortunate to be able to call home.

I feel the Common Loon should be Canada's official bird as many Canadians have a connection to seeing it daily on our money. We have bonded to the bird in this way.

Also, my family of Looney's could help be brand ambassadors if you like.

Thank you,
n.

♥

The loon has been a great long time symbol of Canada.
Its call is truly wild and can be heard for miles.
Its beauty is magnificent.
When you see loons on a lake , it is a symbol that the water is good and healthy.
When you see a pair of Loon's always together, with their little ones tucked under the MOm\s wings, it is forever remembered.

On the weekend I was in a little raft with my 9 year old Grandson on a lake close to their log home. He was giving me a tour of the lake.
We were guided by a pair of loons. Hearing their calls as they dived down to feed and then back up, always close to where we were on the lake.
My Grandson now knows more about the Loon and what they mean to us all.

The various funny sounding yodel day time sound, and late at night haunting calls of the loon are the backdrop of the Canadian wilderness experience! No doubt! I've experienced all their calls. This to me is a given! Unfortunately their numbers are decreasing in areas of Ontario where I used to hear them frequently.

I love the sound, the call, of the loon.

I think the loon would be a great bird to represent Canada; after all we are the only country with a loonie as our one dollar currency and they can be found on many of our lakes serenading us with their beautiful and eerie but haunting call.

The common loon is found in remote areas and the call is very noticeable. Canada as a country has huge areas of wilderness and this is what makes us a unique country.
Also, for the common loon to reproduce the habitat requires being pristine and undisturbed, which indicates a healthy environment....once again, something our entire country and world needs.
What other bird so precisely represents the Canada we all need and love?

The common loon looks like a peaceful bird. Even the sound it makes is soothing to the ear. It's a wonderful bird of the Northern lands. It lives on or near water, and Canada has a lot of fresh water lakes and rivers. So this bird is like Canada, peaceful and lives around a lot of water, and is Northern.

It's haunting call says it all!!!

How I love the Loon
Under a slivery moon she glides serene
our beautiful water bird 'Queen'
Often heard but not always seen
her mate too moves as in a dream.

No one can hear the call of the loon and not be moved by this hauntingly beautiful song.

It's already on our money, it's a bird people want to see and hear, not one that's annoying like the goose.

This bird signifies cottage country. Everyone has heard the haunting cry at some point.

I have chosen the common loon. The loon lives in just about all of canada and the loon is already very symbolic to many canadians. For example when a canadian sees a loon he sees Canada they see Canada because the loon is very popular around all of canada it is a symbol of our currency and a symbol of our land and bodies of water. Another reason I have voted fkr the loon is its traits unlike most birds the loon has solid bones instead of hollow bones. Canada is not a hollow country we are a solid country we have fought in both WWI and WWII and fought strong and honourable we stuck to our allys. We also stick to our ways we allow the FREEDOM OF SPEECH
The FREEDOM OF RELIGION
and we will not have that changed by anyone we are solid on our ways like the bones inside the common loon.

These are my reasons for voting the common loon as our Canadian National Bird

the call of the loon on a northern lake is quintessientially Canadian.

Common loons with their haunting call remind everyone of Canada's wide open natural areas. Since it is found in all the provinces this makes it a natural choice.

I think the Common Loon is a great representative of Canada. They have a beautiful call.

oiseau facile à identifier, aimé de tous, caractérisé par un chant propre à lui et ce n'est pas un oiseau dont la chasse est permise ... donc ce n'est pas un gibier de potence !!!

Icon of peace and tranquility

To me there is no other bird call that expresses "the true north strong and free" than the call of the Common Loon. And to add to that its beauty and grace make it a fitting candidate for our national bird.

When Canadians hear the lonesome call of the Common Loon, we instantly feel a primal draw to be in our beloved wilderness. The the sound and image of the Common Loon arouses Canadian's passion to fiercely safeguard all of our flora and fauna and to fiercely protect our pristine wild spaces. This is a uniquely Canadian characteristic and the Common Loon is the figurehead that leads the way to this uniquely Canadian passion.

oooohOOOO--OOoooo

All I will say is the loon is ''The' Canadian bird

From Wikipedia:

This species, like all divers, is a specialist fish-eater, catching its prey underwater, diving as deep as 60 m (200 ft) and can remain underwater for as long as 3 minutes.[12] Freshwater diets consist of pike, perch, sunfish, trout, and bass; salt-water diets consist of rock fish, flounder, sea trout, and herring. The bird needs a long distance to gain momentum for take-off, and is ungainly on landing. Its clumsiness on land is due to the legs being positioned at the rear of the body; this is ideal for diving but not well-suited for walking. When the birds land on water, they skim along on their bellies to slow down, rather than on their feet, as these are set too far back. The loon swims gracefully on the surface, dives as well as any flying bird, and flies competently for hundreds of kilometres in migration. It flies with its neck outstretched, usually calling a particular tremolo that can be used to identify a flying loon. Its flying speed is as much as 120 km/h (75 mph) during migration.[8] Its call has been alternately called "haunting," "beautiful," "thrilling," "mystical," and "enchanting.

Was at the cottage this weekend. What made it magical, as always, was to hear the Loons and see them with their young!

Common Loon #1 by far, and honourable mention the Canada Goose

I am originally from Maine and have some distant relatives in Canada. Whenever I have visited Canada for birding, my main hobby, it is the call of the Common Loon that epitomizes the north odds for me. The other birds being suggested are all fine creatures but nothing says "Canada" like the loon. (My Brit husband wishes we on the "other side of the pond" called them Great Northern Divers as they do in the UK. Such a ondervul, wild name...)

The first bird i heard when i immigrated to Canada in the 50's and joined to Youth Hostel assn and experienced to norther beauty and heard the loon at night- wonderful memories

I think the Loon best represents Canada as they are found all across the country. Some of the other top contenders are found only in northern regions. Loons are unique and easy to identify. Loons prefer to live in the quietest areas of the vast Canadian wilderness. For me personally, growing up listening to the loons on the lake near my grandparents' cabin is among my fondest memories.

Represented on our dollar coin as a loonie and the haunting sound of camping in the wilderness of Canada, the common loon gets my vote for national bird.

The common loon has been one of Canada's most recognized birds
it is even on the loonie .

Since Iam a American my vote should not count for a Canadian national bird.I do be leave the Loon would be fantastic symbol.Thanks.......David Johnston

I never knew how majestic the loon was until I saw it on alake near where we were fishing.I was impressed by its size, its grace, its haunting call and the fact that it mates for life.
It is present on our northern lakes and seems a fitting symbol of this Northern nation.

I have always been comforted by the loon's early evening cry and I love answering back. They bring fond memories of camping and nature which unites all Canadians.

Le plongeon huard représente pour moi l'immensité dans le silence. Son chant et sa présence dans les lieux naturels sont merveilleux et font rêver. C'est pourquoi j'ai choisi de voter pour lui.

I think that the bird on the dollar coin is the most iconic. But it was so difficult as I love so many of the selections and have memories and encounters with a wide variety of your top birds.

I grew up in Northwestern Quebec and fondly remember sitting on the dock trying as a child to mimic their unique call in hopes that he/she would come closer.

Le plongeon huard est le premier oiseau qui m'est venue en tête quand je pense à "oiseau national du Canada". Il s'agit d'un oiseau fréquent dans les zones d'eau douce, possède un chant et un aspect caractéristique et est présent sur la pièce d'un dollar.

À vrai dire, je croyais qu'il était déja l'oiseau national du Canada.

I have enjoyed trout fishing in British Columbia for the last 10 years, around the Bonaparte Lake region. Loons have always been a favorite presence, both out on the big water or on the secluded ponds that we especially like to fish. For me, their call is the essence of wildness, and always enriches my fishing experience in the great Canadian wilderness. The loon is on your currency, and I was surprised that it wasn't already the national bird. I am honored to take this opportunity to vote for the loon.

It is just so iconic to the North.

Le chant du plongeon huard symbolise bien le caractère brumeux et sauvage des premiers habitants du pays et des premiers colons. De plus, son adaptation aux milieux moins sauvages et son omniprésence au pays, représentent l'adaptation du peuple aux différentes conditions de vie du pays.

Loons are the sound of the lake in summer,
a partner in the water,
fluid in motion and
distinct in colour and line.
nancy mcdermid

the most nationally known bird in Canada

My family and I have been fortunate enough to have had a cottage on a little lake in Canada for 45 years. One of the things we look forward to when visiting is the call of the loons. There is nothing else like it. So hauntingly beautiful. We love hearing and seeing these unique birds every year. Loon fans here!

Canard majestueux connu par tout le monde ou presque et présent à la grandeur du pays. En plus, il figure à l'endos de notre pièce de 1$.

Common Loons are far from common any more. I am voting for the loon because I grew up hearing it every summer on many lakes that I visited during my summer vacations. Now they are much less frequently heard. This seems to change the whole character of the summer lake experience. We need to raise the profile of this bird among cottagers and boaters, and find a way to bring back loon populations.

my vote would always be for the common Loon.....Nothing says a trek in the BC wilderness like the haunting call of the loon....their beautiful, lonely call cuts through the air in such a majestic way. I feel I have not had a true holiday away from home until I hear their call.

Our favorite since every time we visit the lake (Lenard Lake -near Bracebridge) where our cousin had a cottage we would delight in the sound and try to imitate. Many great memories.

C'est l'oiseau qui représente les grands espaces du nord au sud du pays. Un chant mémorable. Quiconque a déjà entendu un cri de huard par un beau soir d'été ne l'oubliera jamais.

I've lived many places and watched birds most of my life. But only in Canada have I had the pleasure of watching the Common Loon. Having seen one up very close during my time working with wildlife rehabilitation I can say it is the most beautiful bird I have ever seen. It is not the most colourful or unusual but definitely the most dramatic and just stunning work of nature. Their calls are beautiful and compelling. They are wonderful mates and good parents. I think the Common Loon is the most representative of Canada.

Iconic one of the lakes.

The handsome common loon literally haunts our lakes with its fluttering then penetrating calls. They do a dance sometimes in September before decided to migrate. They come together from quite a distance around to take turns splashing and moving at and away from each other. It is the amazing tell tale of their decision to head south.

To be represented by a Common Loon as the Canadian national bird should be one of the easier recommendations the National Bird Project will ever have to make. The Common Loon has for years epitomized the outdoors of Canada. To be rowing in a lake and hear the haunting cry of a loon brings forth the image of the here and now and all that nature has to offer. The loon represents the beauty, strength and resilience of Canada in so many ways. One hears a loon and one can imagine the breadth of our history from the earliest native Canadians, to the European explorers who portaged across this country to a family camping in almost any of our National Parks. To see a mother loon with her young on her back is to visualize the moral effigy at the centre of Canadian society. The reason the Common Loon resides on our one dollar coin and has come to be known as a loonie stems from the deep seated recognition that this bird represents Canada in the hearts and minds of the vast majority of us. It is for these reasons that the Canadian national bird should be the Common Loon.

I enjoy the Common Loon here at the seashore and I hope this beautiful bird will forever be able to find a wilderness lake to raise its young.

What's more Canadian than a loon?!? PERHAPS the Canada goose, but loons are represented on circulating coinage and widely connected to Canada.

They are a majestic beast. Out on the lake early in the morning to get their fill of fry and juvenile fish. They are predators yet calming when you see them on a mist filled lake. Oh Canada!

The common loon is a great choice to represent the mighty diversity of Canada's landscape.

Have grown up with the sounds of loons. It has been close to 20 minutes since they last called. Most people I know recognize their unique call, which can be heard over a great distance. Reminds me of the "wild" that is still left in my country.

Found in most larger bodies of waters in Canada. Love its call, it is so haunting. Carries its babies on its back. Love its distinctive colouring, black and white.

The Loon's haunting yodels definitely defines the North which geographically is the larger part of Canada. It is also a striking symbol of the necessity of wilderness.

The Common Loon seems to evoke a strong emotional bond with Canadians, more than many other species. It has a stately presence on our lakes and its famous call resonates with everyone who loves Nature. It is a powerful symbol of conservation and being relatively common, it makes a fine national bird that many people can relate to.

The haunting call of the loon is symbolic of our wilderness and heard in every area of our country.

How could it not be?

Love the sound (4 different types) of the loon. Majestic tune to this pretty bird.
One can never believe that such a tune comes from this bird.

Nous sommes un pays de lacs et de rivières bordé de trois océans (Atlantique, Pacifique, Arctique), il est donc justifiable de choisir un oiseau aquatique.

As a child living on a farm, including a small lake, I learned to call the loon to shore or to answer it's call as it came in to land in the nursery lake in the early evening. Watching the young birds riding or swimming with the adult bird was such a deep delight for me. I can't imagine our lakes without loons and perhaps being declared the native bird would put some security in it's future in our country. Protected species are more strongly fought for in our environment, and as development continues at such an alarming rate we need to act now.

The Common Loon’s haunting call reflects a natural, pristine Canadian landscape that is largely untouched by development. It is our link to what should remain our bond with the environment and represents what is good about Canada in many other ways.

Although only found I summer on our inland lakes, this beautiful bird and it's haunting call will make anybody stop after an encounter, and say "I am glad I live in Canada"!

The Common Loon probably has the most emotional impact for me and many Canadians, and is an important indicator of relatively clean lakes and undisturbed habitat.

It is a Great Bird to represent Our Country!

Icon bird for sure though White-throated Sparrow and Canada Warbler would be 2nd & 3rd choices.

It is a bird that most people in Canada can identify with both by sight and sound.

HAVE BEEN IN THE LOON STUDY FOR YEARS AND HAVE LOONS ON OUR LAKE HERE IN THE CARIBOO.

Le chant du huard, reconnaissable entre tous, peut être entendu sur pratiquement tous les lacs que j'ai eu la chance de visiter au Canada (et j'en ai visité plusieurs).

The mournful loon call is unmistakeable and always tells me that I am in a wonderful natural place.

While i like a number of the birds, nothing says canada like the call of the loon.

I cannot think of any bird more unique to Canada and our whole culture of enjoying the summer and the great outdoors. When I arrive at the cottage, the experience does not seem quite complete until I hear that beautiful call and know then that all is well with the world.

J'aime cet oiseau, il est facile à identifier et présent dans tous nos cours d'eau..

Still remember holidaying in northern Ontario and waking up to the eerie call of the loon across the lake.

The loon is the clear choice - Canada geese are obnoxious !

We have a cottage on Collage Lake Nova Scotia and we enjoy the haunting calls of the common loon. We also enjoy watching for their return in the spring and departure in the fall. Each year we enjoy seeing the new baby and some years two babies. These birds give us great peace and comfort.

The common loon is the Icon of cottage life. My whole life I've grown up listening to loon calls and watching them come and go from the lake every year. We've built Loon nests on our lake, just to help the little ones survive, so now we get to watch the little ones grow up and become adults before they leave the lake in the fall.
To me, summer in Ontario means spending as much time as possible at the cottage and it just wouldn't be the same if the loons weren't there. They are pretty amazing birds, getting the best of both lives between flying and swimming. Sure they look a little funny and awkward when they are on land, but that makes them even more neat.
My vote, is for the common loon. Ontario and Canada wouldn't be the same without them.

The Common Loon is not so common any more but I would like it to be our national bird.

It is striking. The call is beautiful. It is well knowsn. It epitomizes the north.

The common loon has a very distinctive and easy to recognize profile. Although not usually found in cities, I feel their existence leads us to strive to maintain wetlands and forested areas, rather than developing everything

There are many birds that can fill the bill and stand for Canada's national bird but for me the Common Loon is the most impressive of my experiences and that of international guests that I know.

My family lived in Northern Ontario for many years and we eventually had a cottage on Lake Superior. Every morning and every night the loons were seen and heard drifting up and down our beach. They were magical moments that represented raw, natural beauty, their forlorn cry sending a thrill through me, making me glad and proud of my country, Canada.

THE LOON IS A SYMBOL OF OUR STATUS AS A NORTHERN NATION WHERE ITS CALL AND PRESENCE ON CABIN SURROUNDED LAKES REMINDS US OF OUR PAST HERITAGE AND UNIQUE STATUS AMONG OTHER NATIONS.

lived on a lake near moonbeam ontrio and there were lots of loons on the lake every summer return and th e sounds they nade drifting across the lake at nite with the window open and cool night air ............. mmmmmmmmm

Moved from the lake 4 years ago. I use to go asleep listening to the calls of the loons. Miss them like crazy!

Beautiful birds. I never heard bird voice before like this. These birds mean the wilderness, freedom and nature for me.

The Common Loon is quintessentially Canadian, its loud, haunting cries a familiar sound on the myriad of lakes that are a feature of so much of the country. Most Canadians know the bird from its likeness on our $1 coin, which quickly earned the moniker "Loonie" after being introduced 30 years ago. But did you know that most of the Common Loon's breeding range is within Canada? And that it breeds in all 12 provinces and 3 territories? It is for these reasons that the Common Loon truly is Canada's national bird. None of the other contenders are as restricted to this country while simultaneously being so widely distributed within it.

When I visited Pt Pelee many years ago, I noticed the Common Loon on Canada's coin and currency. I also love to hear the 'voice of the waters' in the far north Michigan and I thought how neat it is that Canadians must hear them often. Both of our countries love to see the loon in flights in the spring flyovers, too.

I heard this bird once and it's enough !!! Magnifique !!!

Common Loons not only have one of the most beautiful calls heard on so many Canadian lakes during our holiday season but their plumage stands out like no other.
Since I was a child I've been enchanted by this unique bird.

This bird is quintessentionally Canadian, it WAS on our banknote, it is on our coin which we name for the bird. Its haunting call evokes images of boreal forest lakes, and where else do you find boreal forest. It would be a travesty if any other bird was nominated.

The haunting call of the loon is already a well-known icon of Canada. While it is best known as a call of the North, the loon is well known throughout many parts of Canada. It is evocative and often, when heard, elicits an emotional response. It is the perfect choice for Canada's national bird.

The call of the loon is synonymous with Canadian summer. But it's presence is also a measure of the health of our environment. Loons cannot thrive in acid, polluted lakes with few fish. They cannot successfully breed on lakes with motorboats making big waves that drown their nests. We count loons every summer to record how environmentally friendly our region is. As long as the loons call, Nature is doing well.

I think the call of the common loon is very evocative of camping trips for so many Canadians.
I would be disappointed to see the Gray Jay chosen as it is not found in Ontario where so many Canadians live.

Loons are everwhere

Canadian Citizenship and hoping to get back home every day.

There is nothing Common about the Loon, so the extraordinary Loon will always be my choice for the National Bird.

Grew up hearing the loon almost everyday during the warm months. Now I live in cities and almost never hear it. Lakes and loons are a good representation of the natural side of Canada.

The common loon represents everything that is Canada. It is a humble bird that thrives in the most beautiful parts of the Canadian wildnerness. It is widespread across all of Canada with the exception of the High Arctic. This means that this incredible bird graces every province and territory with its presence. It stays in Canada over the winter, braving our harsh climate just as Canadians do each year. This water bird also is an excellent representation of Canada's bountiful resources, including our abundance of fresh water. Canada is already associated with the common loon since it is depicted on our $1 coin, commonly known as the "loonie". The common loon is already a symbol of Canada. As a Canadian and as a bird ecologist, I would be proud to call the common loon my national bird.

The haunting call of the loon personifies the gorgeous outdoors of Canada's wild places from Nova Scotia to BC. Early in the morning and just before sundown that call will pull you into the wistfulness and magic of our many lakes and pristine forests. As I write this I hear again in my mind those calls and it takes me back to special places and awesome memories.

Together with the lap of a paddle, the crackling of a campfire, the play of light and the rich smell of fir and pine and spruce... what could be more Canadian!

Anything but the Canada Goose!

First seen, on Loon Lake, in the interior of B.C. The mother loons are so proud of their 2 chicks, like female Peacocks, or California Quail. When the chicks get fed up, climb on Mom's back and she sticks out her chest, and paddles about, getting in the way of my fly line, so I move, down the lake. Mother loon rules.

My dear old Dad, after retirement carved loons, with Plexiglas sides. They were piggy banks for Loonies. I still have one, in the second drawer of my desk.

Such beautiful birds, with a mysterious informative honest sounding call, it should be "our bird"

I feel the loon is a beautiful bird. Very family first and represents what we are. Family, country and a little loony!!

There is nothing so pleasurable is to down by the lake and hear the loons

Common Loons are only common in the sense of being found throughout the country. Their calls are haunting and unique, and their loyalty to their mate legendary. We should cherish them.

(Btw, I am an expatriate Canadian, currently living in Japan. Your site won't allow overseas addresses, so I've used my mother's.)

The iconic canadian bird.....The lonely and eerie call reminds most of us of great expanses of unspoiled wilderness, clean and clear fresh water lakes and of the inner peace and sense of belonging it gives us.

Waking to the iconic sound of the loon's call; you know that the serenity of Mother Nature is near by.
The day begins.
The loon glides forth, embracing the misty morning shadows.
The sun rises.
The lake is alive.
The loon says it is so.

It is the sound of Canada 🇨🇦

See them at the cottage on Baptiste Lake near Bancroft. Always makes me feel better when I hear them!

Of course we should have the Common Loon as our National Bird. We've already named a coin after it! Love the call of the loons at our cottage - iconic! If we can't have the loon, make it the Trumpeter Swan - largest bird and by far noisier! :)

What more evocative sound than the call of the loon across the lake? This call says "Canada" to me, a land of wonderful wild places where you can appreciate the physical beauty and grandeur of the country. The common loon is a magnificent bird and worthy of being Canada's national bird.

The sound of the loon takes me to a happy place and seems like a very Canadian experience, trees, lakes, serenity.

The loon represents Canadian pristine wild environments, and its calls are hauntingly beautiful and unforgettable. The loons are family birds and both parents lovingly care for their babies.

The iconic wail of the loon has thrilled anyone who has had the privilidge to hear it in the wild. To be rivalled only by seeing them pop up beside your canoe with their beautiful plummage and startling red eyes

My father purchased a cottage on Golden Lake when I was 15. For many years there was a lone loon on our bay. My dad changed his plate to "GGLLL" Gamble's Golden Lone Loon Lake with a picture of the loon on it. One day that lone loon washed up on shore. Dad brought him to a taxidermist but was told they had to turn his body in as he is a protected species to examine why he died. My father insisted it was old age as he knew the bird well but to no avail.

My dad started carving loons as a result. I will never forget that lone loon. Now a family of loons live on our lake, it's wonderful to see the ducklings grow up and fly away. Eventually we will have another lone loon I suspect.

The loon is quintessentially Canadian. Many Canadians are blessed to spend time at lakes across the country and can identify this beautiful bird easily with it's distinctive call and looks.

Best bird ever....

The iconic Common Loon would perfectly represent Canada!

I love nature photography and Canada is a great place for people like me.
Of the birds that I have been able to appreciate in Canada, I feel the loon represents the majesty of our beautiful country.
I have spent hours sharing nature with loons in the Algonquin area, they are truly magnificent.

I think it should be the loon because their call is so distinct and one we can hear from miles away. They are a beautiful bird and have a beautiful sound.

The Loon is serene, wise and powerful. Just like Canada. Hearing it's call at night or early morning from the cottage makes me feel...Canadian.

I am originally from Australia. My first impressions of Canada are of freshwater lakes and the beauty and compelling cry of the loon. To me this symbolises a care for maintaining a beautiful natural environment. I can never forget the amazement to have such a huge amount of fresh water, something I can never take for granted.

In my mind there is no other bird that would be more deserving of the distinction of being Canada's National Bird than the Common Loon. I find the name "Common" Loon to be a bit of misrepresentation... to me there is nothing common about this bird at all. When I'm up north and hear the call of the Loon, I get shivers up and down my spine and I feel truly awed. I think it should be called the "AWESOME" Loon, but then that's just my humble opinion!

The bird itself says it all.

Beautiful bird that mates for life and has beautiful calls. Swims long distances under water.

Those eyes that voice...beautiful. When I am in nature regaining my perspective and I hear that plaintive call I get shivers up and down my spine.

Being that we have this Bird on our Currency and our dollar is actually known as "the Loony". It seems only appropriate.

a loon, a bird of grace

Memories are near and far as I hear the wistful call of the loon as dusk sets on Spectacle Lake, east of Algonguin Park. I could hear them near the shore at the cottage that Grandpa Johnson built. He was a carpenter. After emigrating from Skelton Bridge in England with his wife, four children and his grandson, now my husband, he could move on with his livelihood and get close to nature again. He built several cottages nearby for neighbours, and created a new community of friends for his family and grandchildren. I wonder if the call of the loon was a sign of a new world for him, after the Second World War when he came here in 1952. Surely it's mournful and haunting calls may have brought up memories for him, what with his children involved in wartime help in England, close to the dangers that had now passed. Or, maybe the loon's call was a sign of prosper, peace and a future for all he held dear. Now, with grandpa passed away and my husband In his sixties with our children grown up, I remember the call of the loon on the lake as we listen in the evening dusk. We have both prospered with good jobs, and put our children through higher education so they can have good jobs and raise a family too. We live in great times of peace, like the loon that swims on our lake. The Canadian culture and the loon are meant for each other - where else could we be without the loon calling, calling us home. To all that is great in life through the generations of our diversity in Canada.

As a bird that has a tremendous range covering most of Canada and the United States, the Common Loon represents, to me, those who migrate back and forth from Canada to my home state of Florida each year.

I like one dollar coin. lol

Loons are not numerous but they have a loyalty to their way of life and to their mate, which is for life. They take good care of their young and take turns looking after them and sitting on the eggs. They live a long time and are very wise in the ways of water birds and other animals. We need to take care of our environment better than we do and the LOON is a bird who points that out in many ways. I vote for the Common Loon.
Margot Roberts

Wonderful experiences my entire life listening to the peaceful, soulful call of the Loon. Very important too that all Canadians have the opportunity without long distance travel to see and hear them.

Steven,

I voted for Loonie McLoonface.

Take care,

Marc.

I, like many others, associate the loon's call with the great outdoors, or call of the wild. It would be fitting to have the loon as our national bird.

I've always thought the Common Loon WAS the national bird. I can't imagine it being anything else!

Although it was a difficult task to pick just one bird to be our national mascot, I chose the Common Loon as so many others have done. It's symbolic of Canada's wilderness and its mournful cry is both distinctive and unforgettable. Also, the bird is steeped in Native folklore and I'm sure most school children have been charmed by the aboriginal tale of how the loon got its beautiful necklace.

I think it's symbolic of Canada's northern wilderness and beauty and its cry is readily recognizable.

The Loon is a lake bird. The country is certainly known by its lakes.
You often hear a loon in movies to signify distance, space.
The loon is already identified with the country.

I THINK THE COMMON LOON SHOULD BE THE NATIONAL BIRD BEACUSE IT IS BUTIFULL

Waking up to the sound of the loon is the must soothing sound to ever hear. I have also fallen to sleep many times listening to the loon.

It's all been said hearing loons means canada

I was spending time up at a friends cottage on Chandos lake.Every evening,we looked forward to hearing the Loon as we sat on the deck.It is one of the things,I remember most about that Vacation.

I am a Canadian, living in the US at the moment. I personally have always felt that the common loon should be the National bird of Canada! Such a beautiful animal!

Nothing better than hearing a loon call at night siting on the lake have a bonfire. That's a true Canadian experience.

As much as it's great to have the Canada goose named for our country, a lot of people (mainly Canadians) associate them with being a nuisance, pooping all over the place and being vicious buggers (which they are). The Loon, on the other hand, is a bird that is associated with the much loved Canadian past-time of being at the cottage, or camping. The call of the loon is enjoyed by all, and we love this bird so much, we put it on our dollar coin! People love seeing a loon pop up in the water and they are rare enough visitors that it's really exciting to spot one.

There is nothing more peaceful than sitting on the edge of a lake listening to the call of loons.

Despite being a resident of the United States, my family and I travel to Canada fairly often and the bird that most embodies CanAda to us is the common loon.

Come on....it's on the loonie! It's an iconic bird, with a song to match, and it's much more pleasant than the Canada Goose....it's not all about the name, it'a also about the image!

There is nothing like the sound of the loon on a still northern lake.

The Loon should be Canada's national bird because it represents many regions of Canada as it is almost everywhere in the country; from the high mountains of the Yukon to the rocky seashore of Nova Scotia. Whether you are taking a walk in your city or you are on a wilderness adventure, chances are, you will find a loon graceful, peaceful, and always standing strong, just like Canada.

We use it everyday and our entire economy is based around the Loon

It's the reason why we have a Loonie, the loon! And the Loon's song and really pretty and captures out the outdoor spirit of Canada.

I came to Canada from the US, and even I knew that the loon was a Canadian bird because of the loonie. It's already on our currency, it should be our bird.

Growing up in Snow Lake, Manitoba I would listen to the loons often at night, with my windows open. The call is so hauntingly beautiful.

It felt that coming home when I found a lake with loons in Central Alberta. Once again, we can listen to the loons.

One evening, I became one with the loons when I had a long echoing conversation with a loon. Our calls went back and forth for several minutes. It is a joke now in my family that I am an expert loon caller. Really... it was a once in a lifetime event, the stars aligned as I really am not that loony!

I have travelled Canada coast to coast multiple times and nothing so captures the essence of the Canadian wild as hearing an echoing loon call from across some pristine lake. While there are other species, the Common Loon is the quintessential.

Apart from the simple beauty of the loon, it is a noble animal in native mythology. Furthermore, it is said a loon family nesting on a lake is a sign of the lake's good health and only one family will live per lake since it is quite territorial. Finally, the call of the loon while enjoying a nice summer evening at the cottage will always put a smile on people within earshot. It's quintesentially canadian.

The loon: there's a reason it's on our money. It has a wide range and is known by all of Canada.

I'm not going to enter an essay. The Loon is a symbol across cottage country in Canada. Anyone who has been camping, cottaging, or up north on a lake could definitely relate to having this bird as the national bird.

The Loon's call is reminder of our spiritual connection to Mother Earth. What is more Canadian than a Loon's lonely call on a northern lake?

After a long cold winter, the lake has finally melted. No sound better brings to mind starry summer nights by the water than the slow haunting call of a loon. A true symbol of the shared Canadian experience.

Everybody knows the loonie!

I love a lot of the birds presented as options on this site, but none of them really means "Canada" to me. Wherever I have gone in Canada, whenever I have been "out it the woods", there have been loons announcing their presence. From childhood camping trips to Lesser Slave Lake, to my year living in northern Vancouver Island, to cross-country trips seeing more of our wonderful country, loons have always been welcome signs that I home again in the wilds of Canada.

To hear the call of the wild means you are no longer near the 98% of the population who doesn't give a Damm and standing in the 98% of the land base that is returned 2% of its wealth, keeping this hush will further null the 98% of the population that wanders around with eyes drilled onto a "device". Keeping this 98% on their merry-go-round in 2% of the land base buzzed out on Canuck the Crow is desired by all five choices given. They don't care who is picked, just leave our home and us alone.

It's on our dollar. I'm not writing an essay. Come on.

All you have to do is go camping to know that the loon is our bird.

I thought the Loon was already our national bird. We see Loons in many places across Canada and we do use the loonie as currency. Common Loon makes the most sense.

The Common Loon represents the tranquility of Canada's Thousands of lakes. Their iconic calls add a haunting note to the stillness of the waters in the evenings and night. They are one of the most striking of birds, and are a prime indicator of the health of a lake.

The call of a loon is featured on the intro to the Tragically Hip's 'Wheat Kings' as well as a place on our one-dollar coin. As such it is debatably more Canadian than drinking maple syrup while playing pond hockey against a moose while wearing a red flannel jacket and listening to Peter Mansbridge recite the national anthem.

Quite frankly, I thought the common loon already was our national bird.

It appears on the one dollar coin!

The Common Loon has become symbol and sound of the Canadian summer. It is a symbol of the stoic northern lakes that speckle our country; part of the landscape. The loon is beloved by Canadians for it's haunting call, itself our unofficial anthem. It seeks solitude in our land, as many of us do as well. It is respected, fearsome, and dignified. The Loon should be our bird because it is part of the Canadian experience in song and flight.

With all their different calls and the beauty of them I vote them Canada's favourite.

The loon's habitat encompasses all of Canada. We recognize the loon as a national bird on our dollar coinage. Why not make the loon an official symbol as Canada's national bird?

Because it is on the loonie.

I believe I seen and heard the loon in every province.
It's lovely to see and can be heard for miles across a quiet lake in the evening.
It represents the Canadian wilderness for me like no other bird.

I have always thought this is our National bird. It has been on our "Loonie" since 1987, so what has changed? I don't think it would be easy to identify the dollar coin with anything else. I vote for the Common Loon.

I think the loon represents most of Canada. It has a haunting sound and makes us reflect on being a part of nature.

I think the loon because the Loon is already on our Canadian money.

C'est mon oiseau préféré, tout simplement!

I love hearing loons when we go canoeing or camping in the summer. They are strong, protective, and they can live almost anywhere in Canada.

Every year we have a pair of loons on our lake and I just love watching them court and swim slowly and proudly. The sound of the loon is so calming by creey at the same time. It is awesome

Not only is it's cry renowned around the world. All travelers to the north long to here it's voice. A signal of the true north strong and free. If you have had the pleasure to here it's call, time itself cannot remove it from your memory. Yes it is harsh on it's young at the end of a season, but it's grace is second to non.

J,adore cet oiseau. Il est beau a regarder. Habituellement calme. Et le son qu,il fait quand il chante sur un lac tranquille est magnifique.

The Common loon is already a de-facto National bird. Chosen to be on the $20 bill from the Birds of Canada collection in the late 1980's and followed by the $1 coin. The Loon has also been on several Canadian stamps, I remember from childhood stamp collecting the 1957 5 cent loon stamp and the 1998 $1 stamp. Also the subject of many Canadian artists paintings. Most memorable are the many prints and paintings of loons by Robert Bateman.
The loon is truly a coast to coast national bird and the sound of the Canadian shield. There are many deserving birds for the Canadian national bird but for me the sound and sight of a loon on a misty morning lake is one of my favourite memories of Canadian wilderness and therefore it gets my vote.

I have spent much of my life searching through the wilderness of back-country Canada; the sights, and smells that make up so much of our natural beauty in this country. The one common linkage, from Gros Morne to the West Coast Trail, the eerie, misty morning call of the Common Loon. It almost seems that I haven't found the natural world until this cry greets me.

For me, the common loon is the most popular bird of Canada. It is an iconic symbol and represents a lot more than just a bird to many people, like their childhood, their residence, and their activities involving the unique bird.

It would do me a lot of pleasure if the common loon won the vote!

The fact that the breeding range reaches all the provinces and territories is the best reason to vote for the Common Loon. The fact that our Loonie honors this bird is another good reason to chose a bird the world would know "whose" bird this is.

I love the sound of the loon. I have been canoeing/camping since I was 6 months old (now 50). The sound brings back wonderful childhood memories. I now canoe with my teenage boys and when we are backcountry ,in the middle of nowhere and we hear the loon, my boys always say they came camping/canoeing just to hear their music.

The loon is an elusive bird of the Canadian Wilderness and its countless lakes. It can, however, also be found on lakes close to some cities. The characteristic haunting call that carries far over the water is an unmistakable signal, a call of nature typical for the Canadian woodlands and the prairies.
And we have this bird already represented on our 'loonie'.

With their bold black-and-white colouring and their haunting cries that echo across lakes, loons are iconic members of the Canadian family.

The "Common Loon' is my choice for Canada's National Bird. This bird can be found all over Canada, and has even be chosen to be on our most common coin, the "loonie".
It's haunting call over Canadian Lakes is memorable, and recognized by most Canadians as a call of "home"!
This bird mates for life...a strong character trait that identifies Canadians! We are true to our Country!
This bird watches over it's young, and protects their offspring from predators! There are many Canadian "forces" that protect us from any foe that may attempt to bring evil to Canadian citizens.

The "Common Loon' is my choice for Canada's National Bird. This bird can be found all over Canada, and has even be chosen to be on our most common coin, the "loonie".
It's haunting call over Canadian Lakes is memorable, and recognized by most Canadians as a call of "home"!
This bird mates for life...a strong character trait that identifies Canadians! We are true to our Country!
This bird watches over it's young, and protects it's offspring from predators! There are many Canadian "forces" that protect us from any foe that may attempt to bring evil to Canadian citizens.
The striking "red" ring around the male's neck" stands out...as Canadians do all over the world! We are noticed but not for brashness...but for our positive actions!
Yet, the bird's camouflage colouring...black and white...allows it to come and go peacefully!
We are blessed to have such a beautiful symbol to represent us!

Canada's wild places are distinguished by the loon's unique and beautiful call.

The Loon is so part of my Canada
I remember camping and hearing the loon.haunting calls across the water.
I still think of the wonderful call when Im camping. I have come across the baby chicks who are so engaging.
Their floating nests in the reeds are also interesting
I have lived abroad many times and often felt a longing to be camped beside a wilderness lake and hear their haunting call.
When i returned and went camping ,hearing the loon made me feel I was truly home.

This bird is distinctive in both appearance and voice, and occurs north, south, east and west in Canada. It can be identified by its call alone.

I love the cry of the "Loon" on our lakes! Whenever we go to the cottage or waterfront, the loon would make the "lonesome" call across the lakeshore!! Searching for its mate to come "sail" across the water with him!!

The Common Loon has a range that covers nearly all of Canada, meaning that most Canadians have seen and/or heard one, unlike some of the birds listed that only cover part of the country. Surely a "national" bird should indeed be that? Also, the Common Loon is not considered a nuisance bird. The Canada Goose is often considered a nuisance, even by other countries. I, personally, would not want our national bird to be viewed as a nuisance!

it's the perfect fit for Canada

The iconic loon is truly our national bird ... found in every province and territory.

I vote for the Loon as I've never seen a Gray Jay in my life

I vote for the Loon as I've never seen a Gray Jay in my life

The loon is iconic to Canadians; it's on the one dollar coin which is called the 'loonie'. It's the obvious choice!

I think the national bird of canada should be the common loon. The loon is a majestic bird synonimous with peace and tranquility, which is what our amazing country is all about. Being waterfowl, they represent not only on wonderous great lakes, but also the collection of wonderful fresh water lakes that we have in our beautiful country.

We always loved the early morning sound of the Loon at the cottage on Silver-Lake,
near Gravenhurst Ontario !

Symbolic of Canada and our love of wilderness

One of the iconic associations with Canada is the call of the loon over a beautiful lake in the north. I think for this reason the loon would be a fine choice for Canada's national bird.

Simply put, there is nothing more calming than to sit by a lake in Ontario on a quiet summer morning and see our Loon swimming by. With a sound you can meditate by and a visual that is classic; it's quiet presence graces our natural world and exemplifies the Canadian spirit of humility, strength, and perseverance. In native culture, according to the Wabanaki, Medawisla (Loon) means Spirit bird, one who communicates to the creator the ways of man. It's eerie and spiritual sound is used to relay messages from Gluskabi(Creator) to mankind. We need to heed its message of minding our water and respecting Medawisla's role of communicator now and for our future. Miigwech.

Every year since we bought our cottage 44 years ago, loons have nested, or attempted to nest very near our cottage on Cameron Lake. I think there is nothing to compare with hearing their call echo across the water. When I think of Canada, this is the first bird that comes to mind.

For me and my family our loon represents strength, beauty, caring, adaptability and loyalty. What would our lakes be without the haunting song of the loon? It is the True North - with our wonderful lakes and forests.

The common (not common in my books)loon is a beautiful bird of no small stature. It flies like a supersonic plane, dives like a nuclear sub and puts on magnificent displays on the water that not many birds can emulate. A bird that portrays we as humans admire the nuclear family - the new baby floating on the parents back.

The Call of the Loon depicts Canada's Vastness.
It is on the Canadian Dollar.
It is a beautiful creature.
I have a photo of a male loon I would like to submit in support of my vote.

Loons are cool.

The Common Loon is an appropriate Canada's National bird as it is found in all parts of Canada
Magestic, loves to seranade yet also on the watch.very Canadian I'd say!!!!

As much as I enjoy many of the other species of birds on your list, I believe that the Loon would fit perfectly as our national bird. Even one of our currencies is named after it! And as far as distribution, it's likely more well know across Canada. Nothing speaks of Canada better than the far off call of loon over a remote Canadian lake! They are beautiful, majestic birds! Thank you for this initiative.

I have seen the Common Loon in almost all the provinces of Canada even though I live in British Columbia. It is truly an "across Canada" bird and rightly deserves to be our national bird. They are so emblematic of this country with their haunting musical call which can echo throughout any region of this great country. They so need the many wilderness lakes that Canada is known for to breed and multiply. If the Loons are healthy, Canada is healthy!!!

The cry of the loon IS Canada!

I am a Canadian resident in the USA. I love the LOON and always enjoyed watching and listening to them while camping in Algonquin Park, Ontario in years gone by. To me they represent CANADA!

I pick the loon beacuse it is know on the loonie,and it and its the most popular bird know in Canada!

As a child I spent all my summers in Algonquin Park. My favourite memory is of going to bed in a prospector's tent on a platform while it was just dusk, and hearing the echoing loon calls around the lake as I fell asleep.
Magical! How lucky I was.

The loon is a bird.

i just love the Loon and its' call

It's a very neat bird with wonderful calls. anytime I'm in Canada I look for them. kind of a mysterious bird also...has my vote!

It's a very neat bird with wonderful calls. anytime I'm in Canada I look for them. kind of a mysterious bird also...has my vote!

There is question it is the Common Loon

I believe the loon would be the best chose of a national bird for Canada because it symbolizes Canada's wilderness perfectly. Not only is it beautiful, calm and graceful, it also represents and peaceful and civilized community. So for these reasons and many others, the loon should be declared Canada's official.

Iconic bird of the lakes of Ontario where I lived for many years, and thrilled to the sound of its haunting cry, loved to watch them raise their young with determination. Tenacious in its efforts for survival, strong, beautiful, loving partners and parents, joyous when coming together in groups to celebrate living. I think these traits are representative of the Canadian people.

One of my favorite birds, have a pair that breeds in lake by my house every spring.

It's ubiquitous presence in our wilderness coast to coast makes Gavia simmer perfect. It's silhouette and unique calls are so reflective of our experience at the cottage or in an wilderness lake.

I feel that the loon represents the rugged and untamed beauty of Canada from coast to coast to coast. It has upheld its stature through time, as no one sees it now as a feral pest.

A beautiful and sweet sounding bird of Canada. One the most well known birds to. Also on the 1 dollar coin. This would be a great fit for the national bird of Canada. An amazing bird with lots of symbolism, and meaning. With colorful attributes and can be found in many places of Canada. Best bird for Canada.

I have worked and lived in 6 national parks in my life and the Common Loon has been an important and loved bird in all of them.

The Loon evokes thoughts of the things I love about Canada. That mournful cry on an isolated lake, being in the wild, camping, canoeing and portaging. Spending precious time with people I love away from the hustle of city life.

I've spent more nights than I can count in the Canadian wilderness, primarily in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. Most of all, I have enjoyed many nights in Algonquin Provincial park, where loon calls add an extra element to sunsets and campfires that delight the ears of the young and old alike. As a national symbol, we'd be crazy (looney?) not to agree that the loon is a Canuck favourite.

The Common Loon is the call of the wild no matter where you roam in Canada. It's symbolic of our need to fly wild and free. A camping trip is not complete with hearing the loon call.

Canadians identify with the Loon...it's picture is on our "Loonie" coin, and present in a lot of our promotional literature. I don't think there is a Canadian who hasn't heard the "call of the loon"...even on a tape, if not for real!
There is a lot of tourist clothing bearing a picture of a loon! Many Canadian souvenirs have a Loon logo on them! Woodworkers carve loons for retail places to sell. Painters have captured the Loon and usually, with a baby on the Mother's back!
Cottagers love to hear the loons calling to one another all summer long!
My choice is the Loon!

My 6 year old son looked at all the birds and picked the loon. He says it's because his Nanna has a lot of them (pictures, statues and such) all over her house (and he's right).

Every time we visit Canada, I always look forward to seeing and hearing this beautiful bird. It is what I envision when I think of the beautiful country that makes up all of Canada.

The Common Loon is one of my favorite birds and has been a part of our summers
in the Northern Camp we have for 50 years. They are devoted parents and both
male and female help the little ones grow up by teaching them from when they
are little fluff balls to when they are learning to dive and catch their own
meals. This bird represents to me what living in Canada means, beautiful
wild country, peace and devotion to family.................Sandra.

I vote for the common loon because it is a bird that with its haunting calls and beautiful plumage, appears all over Canada. When I hear those very special calls, I am reminded of our beautiful country and its many wild places where such a wonderful bird can thrive.

They are beautiful.

The Loon epitomizes all that is great and wild about Canada. It's haunting call evoke the mysteries and grandeur of Canada. It's faithful pair bonding is the character of Canada.
I can think of no other bird that brings to mind the Canadian spirit more than the Loon.

Cela fait plus de 25 ans que j'observe le Plongeon huard, en faisant du canot camping. Son chant, son cri, son vol, sa démarche sur le nid, sa façon de nager sous l'eau, sa tête sortant des profondeurs de l'eau en toute douceur, son regard, le soin qu'il prodigue à ses petits, sa façon de détourner notre attention pour protéger les siens, la délicatesse qu'il emploi pour nourrir les oisillons et surtout sa beauté font que cet oiseau est remarquable. Je crois sincèrement que le Plongeon huard doit être notre oiseau national.
Carole

I believe that it should be Canada's bird because it is the most easy recognized bird we have. Their call fires the imagination and it is the face of our Canadian dollar.

Beautiful symbol.
Already on our money.

its pretty neat

We have an island on Lake Nipissing and we are lucky to have loons around all the time.It is a welcome to hear.We even participate on loon surveys for a few years.it was interesting to see the loon population maintain itself over the years.love them :)
Happy camper

The Loon's call is synonymous with Canada...it goes without saying, really, and to me it is the One Bird, in all categories that people around the world I have met and talked to recognize Canada with.

To watch loons do their mating dance on a lake is a beautiful ballet!

The iconic call of the Common loon has echoed all across Canada for centuries!

Cottaging wouldn't be complete without the call of this bird. It is natural Canada at its best.

The loon is an iconic Canadian bird whose haunting call is synonymous with lazy summer evenings/early mornings on one of Canada's many lakes.

Found throughout all regions of the country.

Though I can think of many wonderful candidates for this project I vote for the Common loon as being a perfect representative in symbolizing what I so love about our Canada. The loons connection to the waters is a big one, as our waters are so precious and run deep. A vast resource that must be stewarded and protected. The loons haunting call carries me to the deepest longing within my soul..it reminds me of dreams long forgotten or given up on, surfacing. Dreams I must call forth, tend to and rekindle within my heart to truly be free. Canada to me epitomizes this true and free spirit. I would like to say that we as Canadians feel a desire to build these dreams in peace, in community and in harmony with our waters, trees, mountains, open skies, forests and all of life. And so we must dive deep like the loon to catch what sustains us. We must be willing to work hard to fly. And be willing to migrate to those different waters, to stretch and step out of our comfort zone and expand the horizons of possibility within our minds to catch those greatest of dreams. Who we are and what we stand for as Canadians can inspire the world. The loon to me symbolizes and calls to all these things and more...
My dear friend Myrna inspired me to include a short poem I wrote many moons ago that maybe speaks to this as well:

" The Loon - Wet pearls of light cascading down sleek, dark iridescent beauty
A swift flash of movement
the diver leaves behind a ripple of water;
its circle ever expanding,
the quiet echo expands awareness
and reaches eternity "

parcequ`il est tres populaire

IT is already unofficially known as the bird of Canada... the Loonie, northern lakes etc.

For me the Common Loon represents Canada. Its haunting cry echoing across lakes and rivers and around shorelines is evocative of the wildness of our country. But this bird is also found in suburban lakes/ponds.
Seeing a family grouping of loons floating on the water, particularly with the chicks on the back of one of the adults represents the caring attitude of our country. It is a fitting bird to represent Canada.

Stephen Colbert called the loon Canada's national bird and I knew that was a mistake but then I thought, "Shouldn't it be?" It's already on our dollar coin and I will avoid poetry but the loon's beauty is something that captures the great Canadian wilderness: its lonesomeness, its playfulness, the laughing, the crying.

c'est un oiseaux magnifique et facinant a observer et a ecouter dans son milieu. C'est un bioindicateur de premiere ordre, qui nous en dit beaucoup sur la qualite de notre environnement. c'est un animal exceptionel a plusieurs egars: son chant embelli notre vie, c'est un excellent nageur qui disparait sous l'eau pendant de tres longues secondes, fidele en couple et tres protecteur de ses petits. il sait creer un atmosphere feerique tout autour de son lac ou il est roi!

C'est pour moi toujours un ravissement de le revoir chaque ete!

There is nothing that says "peace & tranquility" more than hearing that memorable call near almost any body of water in Canada.

The loon, one of the oldest of all birds, is incredibly beautiful in a dignified way and has the most unique and lovely call of any other bird. It is quintessentially Canadian.

Although it could come down to process of elimination the moment I saw the list of options the Loon struck me immediately. There is nothing more welcoming and memorable than sitting on the shoreline of one of our beautiful lakes and hearing the calls of the loon. It is the perfect choice and although at first I wondered if it can be found in every province, according to the writings in this website it is, so that's my choice. Ideally of course the Canada Goose is maybe the obvious choice because of it's name and beautiful markings, but it is such a nuisance - territorial, spitting, aggressive, threatening and messy to name a few flaws - and because there has been no control over their numbers - there are now probably more Canada Geese than there are residents in this area!! The Puffin I relate to the East coast and not very familiar with the others.
So, great choice....the loon although I must admit I don't find it to be one bit "common". Beautiful bird and so pleased it's on the list.

It winters here, and is already on our currency.

Every time I went camping, no matter the province, the evening call of the loon was so calming and a great reminder of Canada's vast wilderness.

The Loon makes perfect sense in every way.
It's image and haunting call speaks to the beauty and lure of our northern wilderness.

Also, everyone thinks it's the Canada Goose and that's gotta change!
Comedian Pete Zedlacher makes an excellent case as to why these aren't our ideal choice. Very funny:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYsoK-PV4AE

Clearly and easily identifiable, unique call, ubiquitous, water bird.

The loon is a very distinctive bird both in looks and voice. Canada is a very distinctive nation, so I feel the two go together. There is nothing more hauntingly beautiful than hearing the call of the loon on a placid lake in the summer. We are also a land surrounded by water and full of lakes, where these lovely beings dwell.

I think we should pick the common loon because it's a symbol of the Canadian wilderness. If you've ever been fishing on a lake and hear the calming sound of the common loon, you'll know how peaceful and relaxing the sound is. The true meaning of Canada and it's wilderness. Peaceful

I think we should pick the common loon because it's a symbol of the Canadian wilderness. If you've ever been fishing on a lake and hear the calming sound of the common loon, you'll know how peaceful and relaxing the sound is. The true meaning of Canada and it's wilderness. Peaceful

An instant return to childhood's innocence any time that haunting call echoes over water.

the loon is smart, and beautiful and has a wonderful call that is a sound of summer in Canada. And its already on our money so why not make it the national bird.

I choose the common loon as it's song to me is a sound of peace and tranquility. These things are what I consider our country to be, a Country that believes in peace and tranquility.

I chose the loon because I have experienced its presence at most of the lakes we have camped near. The Canada goose may be the prey of the bald eagle but most birds are prey to other animals, especially cats. The fact that they "poop" everywhere is only a problem because people feed them but, think about it, is there an animal that doesn't poop somewhere and most of them don't care where. I wouldn't know a Red-tailed Hawk if I saw one. I've only every seen a Grey Jay in Florida. The Snowy Owl is magnificent, flying or not, but rarely seen.

Even thought it is common in the States it only mates and gives that eerie call when it's in Canada

I chose the Common Loon because it is so distinctive. Much of Canada is wild. You find the loon in wild places. Its eerie cry thrills you to your soul. It is found in water and we have plenty of that. It is one of my favourite birds and, unlike the Canada Goose, it is not a pooping nuisance.

Not an essay, just wanted to say in my opinion the loon is the perfect choice next to the Canada geese which I understand we can not have.

Enjoys its privacy on a lake in the summer, while still socializing in the evenings, travelling to other lakes to eat with other loons (with each loon in the group taking turns to host).
Also travels south to warmer climates in the winter, usually returning to the same lake in the spring.

Aboriginals say the voice or call of the loon signifies new beginnings and hope, engenders peace among people. Accordingly, it would seem a perfect representative of Canada and our role in the world community.

Son chant est magnifique oiseau majestueux

Le mâle la femelle et les poussins ont un superbe plumage

Simply because the loon is known throughout the country since it is already on the dollar coin. Everyone in all parts of the country, regardless of whether they have actually seen one live, is familiar with the loon. For those people who are not birders, most other birds might not be recognizable for them. Whether the loon lives in their location or not., it's recognizable for everyone. It is a beautiful sleek bird with a haunting call and it is for these reasons I firmly believe the loon should be Canada's Bird.

The sound of the loon calling is hauntingly beautiful and heard all over Canada. With their striking appearance, wide spread range, and their appearance on the "Loonie" they are already Canada's to many, including myself.

The most bird that you I see that they are So done to our country and they never live the the Canada. I love the way they call to one other and there call it so nice when you I be by a bone fair at night and they call one other.
I feel that there call it is the call to God to bring there partner to came near there mat.
When you see them with there small ones on there back, the way they take care of the young once. What a sit of pace and love they have to that give me, They make feel that this land is God land.

There is nothing like the call of the loon that says "Home" to me. Their forlorn and eerie calls echoing in the night is such a soothing sound while sitting around a campfire. To me, the loon is a symbol of Canada's wilderness.

There is nothing as iconic as the Loon is to Canada.

Le huart est un oiseau qu'on aime aussitôt qu'on a entendu son chant.

Love the sound of the loon. It represents summer, the cottage, still nights and slowing down. They return to their same nesting area and we all seem to return to our cottages and roots.

The night is silent as I stand at the water's edge of our new campsite. The soft, plaintiff cry of The Loon comforts me. I am home.

Some of my earliest and most favourite memories are those of summer visits to my grandparents' summer cottage on Loon Lake in northwestern Ontario, about a 45 minute drive from Thunder Bay. My early memories are of a long drive from "Port Arthur" (now part of Thunder Bay) in the back of my grandfather's red truck, and at the end having to use a one lane trail through the bush. Over the years my parents owned it, and I went took my children, and now my brother owns it and I visit most summers, but now it is only a short drive off the Cross Canada highway east of Thunder Bay. Loon Lake still has many loons on it, and I am sure most of those who have visited or lived on that Loon Lake have taken away memories of Loons. I have lived in the Near North Almaguin area of Ontario since 1967, where there are also loons on most of the lakes. For a few years we heard the calls of two loons in the early dawn overhead our land-locked home - presumably travelling from their evening lake to their morning lake. As others have pointed out - it is on the "Loony", young children can recognize it by sight or sound, and it lives in every province and is already an iconic symbol of Canada.

I hope the U.S don't have a say to our Canadian bird. There was an option for what country, Why? Why do they have a say? there not Canadian,,,,

Anyway, I love the majestic sounds of the loon on the open lake in the wilderness as Canada is itself.

Because it's already on our Twoney.

The majestic calls and beauty of the loon make it the ideal candidate, not to mention its habitat - the beautiful lakes throughout our country.

Un animal qui aime les grands espaces. Souvent solitaire dans ce vaste pays parsemé de lacs et de rivières, il a un chant unique et reconnaissable. Il est d'une grande beauté et est vraiment spécifique au pays.

On en voie partout sur nos lacs et leurs chants sont magniifiques tout commes leurs plumages.

Je vote pour le plongeon huard parce qu'il est associé pour moi à la nature, à nos lacs, à nos environnements encore sains. Parce que son cri me va droit au coeur et évoque pour moi le lien que l'on devrait avoir plus souvent avec cette nature que nous avons la chance inestimable d'avoir encore tout près de nous.

ÉLÉGANCE incomparable ! et en prime, il habite TOUTES les régions du Canada !

Growing up in the then Haliburton Highlands, now Kawartha Lakes, we had a cottage on Salmon Lake. The lake was in our family due to my dad's father. He was a logger and had the rights to that area. Instead of logging Salmon Lake, Papa Thom gave his 3 children 75 acres, his cousin, another 75 acres. His daughter's husband, 75 acres.
In the early hours of the morning, I would wake to the song of the loons. Daddy would take me out on the lake, in our outboard, to watch how the mother loon would have her baby ridding on her back. He would not speed up when a mother and baby were together. Only when the loon was on his own, would dad speed up just to let me see how quick they can dive underwater.
I also learned the Legend of the Loon when I was in Grades 3 and 4. How the loon received his necklace from an Iroquois. Beautiful story.
We already have the loon on our "loonie" so it makes perfect sense to make it our National Bird. No other bird has such a haunting call as the loon. Once heard, you never forget it. At one time, I could imitate his call, but that was many years ago.

J'étais persuadée que le huard était DÉJÀ l'oiseau emblématique du Canada ....... Oui , il est grand temps de le désigner comme tel !
Merci , c'est une belle initiative .
F. Cornet

J'aime cet oiseau.

Le huart à collier est un superbe oiseau au chant magnifique et typiquement canadien.

S'il est un son caractéristiques du Canada, des grands espaces et de la forêts, des journées et des soirées passées près d'un chalet ou en camping, c'est bien le cri du huard, sur un lac calme, un soir d'été.

Found on the coins in our pockets, found on the lakes we swim in. A symbol of the wild. A token of Canada.
Canada is the most wild country I have ever seen.
The haunting call of the loon sounds in the night, and in the crisp and foggy mornings.

Nothing tells me I am home like the call of the wild,
The call of the loon.

I love the Common Loon!...

In Canada we still have lots of wilderness where we can get away from the hustle and bustle of our every day lives. Last fall on our annual trip to Keji we set up our campsite near the lake. The cool evening air made the warmth of the campfire feel so comfortable.
As the darkness gently wrapped us in its' blanket of quiet we could hear the far off yips of an excited coyote pack echoing through the woods. Roasting marshmallows helped us end our typical first evening.
As we settled into our sleeping bags and closed our eyes for sleep, we suddenly heard the sound we had been missing. The haunting call of the loon floated across the lake. Drifting off to sleep to the chorus of the loon was the perfect end to the perfect Canadian day of camping. This sound just typifies our Canadian wilderness. It echos in our minds and in our hearts.

Le huard et sa longue plainte nous rappelle nos grands espaces solitaires, mieux que n'importe quel oiseau! Son besoin de grands lacs et rivières nous ramène à l'immensité de notre pays et de ses zones inhabitées. Qui pourrait mieux représenter notre beau pays, d'un océan à l'autre?

Loon Talk
I am not Native although people think I am. Perhaps it is because the loon is my totem. It takes me a long time to get airborne creatively but once I do I have strength and power- just like the loon. And I'm awkward on land. I hate shopping malls, commercialism, cities and pollution. I like my own quiet bay in the world. I love to paddle around in the early morning mist. I love to sing and loon-talk soul to soul.
I sleep most peacefully near water. Like the loon I am happiest when surrounded by water, even if it is just a walk in the rain. And in winter I go a little grey. I get a little lost in the ocean darkness of things. You have to coax me near land with tidal persuasion.
Maybe I am an old soul. A friend says that I am and her mirror is kind. The loon was here long before mankind ever came to be. My Mom says that my writing haunts her at times. Maybe she too, hears the cry of the loon.
When I dream, I dive deep. I'm always telling others what I find down there and they don't seem to mind, even if they do not understand it.
I spend a lot of time away from my mate. But springtime always returns and it is better if we meet near water. Gifts of loons always arrive at Christmas and birthdays and each token says- we know who you are. I love to carry children on my back and to teach them about their own ability to swim out into the world. I don't mind leaving first when I know they have their own fish in the water.
What pleases me most as I grow older is the knowledge that I have met the Great Spirit that made the loon and I. Myrna Downer

This just seems like a natural choice for me. We even have the bird's picture on our currency! It is worthy of Canada's honour to be called Canada's National Bird!

The Common Loon gets my vote as a great symbol for the whole of Canada!

I have seen loons at Scotch Lake NB ever since I was young. Now they are on the St. John River across from my house.

Who could not love the thrilling sound of loons talking to each other..
Or be fascinated by the young riding on the backs of mothers.
Sitting quietly by the lake and a pair of loons paddle by, quietly discussing the day's events.

seems appropriate

The Common Loon is one of the most recognized bird songs on a lake. It's a beautiful eerie sound and its soothing and peaceful at the same time. I am a photographer and enjoy capturing the Loon while it's on water. Watching them dive and come back up somewhere totally not where you're assuming is a joy to watch. They can be playful and I've seen them in spring when the female carries the babies on her back while swimming. I believe the Loon is a common water bird in all the provinces

The Lon symbolizes Canada's prestige wilderness & is loyalty to it's heart.

The call of the loon from a mist shrouded lake fills a spot in the soul.

I LIVED IN Millertown, Newfoundland for many hears on a 46 mile beautiful lake, known as RED Indian Lake. at night in a small little village,all you could hear was the beautiful sound of the loons.

I love the peace that the loon brings to a paddle on a lake or river on a canoe trip in Canada. Loons are peaceful and they take care of their families. They tend to fish together and they are not overly disturbed by quiet people nearby. They share the lakes and rivers with us as we travel around the country.

The loon call is synonymous with northern Canadian lakes and summer time. It was one of the first bird calls I learn to recognize and is one of the first bird calls I learned to make. Our cabin on the lake just wouldn't be the same without our mating pair of loons.

It's ancient. It's beautiful. But as a wildlife photographer who has photographed more than 250 species of birds, there is nothing that reminds me that I am in Canada's wilderness more than the sound of a loon - especially at night or early morning. It's unmistakeable, beautiful and goes right to your soul!

Who the heck would vote for a cowbird? Laying their eggs willy nilly all over hell's half acre. Sneaky Petes.

I pick the Common Loon. Hands down, the most beautiful & certainly most enigmatic of all birds. Just their call…it's spellbinding…pure Canadiana.

Can't think of anything more Canadian than the call of the loon on a Canadian Lake.

Quel bel oiseau qui représente bien nos espaces naturels. Et il est déjà sur les pièces de un dollars.

Nothing says my north like the loon

Such a great choice, though not a surprise, to see the Common Loon at the top of the list to become Canada's national bird. Scrolling through the list of birds that have been voted for, I feel very fortunate to have seen many of them and all are worthy of consideration.
I moved to Canada, from Australia, in 2007 and feel very proud, and honoured, to now be a permanent resident of this country full of natural beauty. When I first heard that Canada was searching for a National bird it was the loon that came straight to me as an automatic choice. But I had to search deep to realize why this bird sprang so instantly to mind.
I think when I first stepped foot onto Canadian soil, the loon was the first bird that became synonymous with the country as the symbol on your Dollar coin. The "Loonie" is unique to Canada and the association between the country and the bird is automatic from the outset - just as the Kangaroo on the Australian dollar coin defines that country's most recognizable animal. Of course the reason that this bird should be considered comes down to much more than being stamped onto metal at the Mint.
The Raven, with its, almost, mystical qualities steeped in legend and folklore certainly stir the soul and there can be no question of its importance to all Canadians, particularly of the West Coast. The ever-present Canada Goose though also synonymous with the country of the name it bears seems a little clumsy and comical, though it always brings a smile to my face when I see one! The various songbirds are beautiful in both sound and sight, the ground birds - Grouse and Ptarmigan - are solid symbols of Canadian Bushland, the Birds of Prey, though powerful symbols, do not scream CANADA to me (with the possible exception of the Snowy Owl).
No, to me nothing conjures images of quintessential Canada more than the sight and perhaps even more importantly, the call, of the Loon. As the mist lifts from one of the thousands of lakes Canada is covered, and blessed with, nothing quite literally gives me goosebumps than the call of the Loon and the sight of its low riding body creating ripples on the otherwise mirror of the surface film. As I write this, images of a log cabin with a wood stove and fogged windows enter my mind. You wipe the condensation from the window and there it is. That bird. That call. It's no fantasy though. The Loon is Canadian reality and a reason to keep Canada's incredible, unique wilderness and culture pristine. It represents everything that is good and pure of the nation it stands to represent.
So why should an import like me have a say in a decision as critical as creating a National symbol for a nation I was not born in? Maybe I shouldn't. However I feel it necessary to speak up for the importance of the Loon to me and it's association with Canada. I have proudly guided dozens of Citizens of my birth country through Canada. Beaver, Moose, Bear ... there are dozens of animals they all want to check off of their "bucket list" as being viewed in the wild. The Loon (Isn't that the bird on the Dollar coin?) rarely gets mentioned until that first time its call (so often, aptly, described as haunting) is heard echoing across a mountain lake for the first time. The "Loon chills" is what I have come to describe this phenomenon as, and it never fails to leave a deep, permanent impression on all of those who experience it. So while other wildlife and geographical and cultural features may bring the World to Canada, it seems invariably that it is the Loon that brings Canada to the world. it is the Loon that leaves the lasting impression of an unforgettable country.
As the Bald Eagle is representative of the country to the south. As the Polar bear is the figurehead of the Arctic. As the Kiwi symbolizes New Zealand and the Kangaroo to Australia. So too, the Loon should officially represent Canada as to me, if only unofficially, it already does.

I vote for the loon because it is are national bird because it is on are 1 dollar coin.

There is nothing for me like the cry of the Loon on the lake it lives on.

The call of the loon is synonymous with northern lakes across this great land.

The Common Loon is indeed iconic. It is beautiful, serene and non-offensive unlike the Canada Goose. If you are ever lucky enough to see its courtship dance, it is a sight you will never forget!.

One of my fondest memories from my childhood is hearing the song of the Common Loon on the lakes deep in the forests of Quebec and Ontario.
Second best is seeing them early in the morning on a quiet lake with its reflection on the water.
I can hardly imagine a more beautiful scene than seeing the loons with their young, usually one or two riding on their mom's back!
Please pick the LOON for our national bird.

I cannot imagine my childhood in Canada without the presence of the loons call in the background.

Oiseau magnifique au son majestueux....

Nothing says Canada and the beautiful forests and lakes like the cry of the Loon. It never fails to move me.

It is on the coin, everyone knows the loon, and it has a unique and recognizable call.

Ask to have the name changed to Canada Loon.

The common look is iconic of Canadian wilderness. Its haunting call characterizes this wilderness which otherwise is generally deadly silent although other Canadian mammals such as wolves and coyotes make haunting calls. Whenever I am wilderness hiking the call that I expected to hear when I reached a lake was that of the loon. A wilderness lake without a family of loons was a dead lake irregardless of what other water fowl inhabited it. I love to wake up in the morning at dawn and listen to the call of the loon. It tells me that all is well and it is another great day. Loons are wonderful patient parents. Watching adult loons teach their offspring reaffirms ones love of family. Canadians are fortunate to have loons living on many of their huge number of lakes. One can be a protector of nature for many reasons but the one that ooens the door wide open is the loon.

A very charismatic bird with a haunting call, easily heard in spring on many lakes across Canada. Surely a bird found all across Canada, both in summer and winter.

I love the common loon. Beautiful plumage, majestic call, the epitome of the Canadian wildlife experience. Canoeing is Canadian and so are Loons.

The call of the Loon coming across a lake is hauntingly beautiful and represents the essence and joy of camping. It is a sound that will reverberate in my mind forever.

the loon is already on our money and is therefore very well known and so it makes the most sense as our national bird.

I'm not from Canada, but I am from Alaska. I have the fondest memories of loons at my mother's lakeside cabin.

There is no more haunting noise evocative of the Canadian wilderness than the Common Loon. The loon typifies all that is good, clean, peaceful and beautiful within Canada.

I have a cd with nothing on it but rain , thunder and the wonder call of the loon

Le huard est l'oiseau symbole de la forêt boréale canadienne. Son chant très émouvant me rappelle de beaux souvenirs de vacances en famille!

The loon, and the sound of the loon, are haunting, lovely, and an icon of Canadian wilderness, which in itself represents the strong, northern, free country of Canada.
The loon may be out Numbered or more elusive than other birds, but It is this mystique that makes them all the more magical to encounter, I believe they embody the true Canadian spirit.

It's already our national bird - really!!

They represent our wild shores best.

In summer we live off-grid on a small mountain lake in south eastern BC. There are many mating pairs of loons raising their young. We've come to "understand" some of their vocals and thoroughly enjoy waking up and going to sleep with their joyful chatter.
This iconic Canadian bird symbolizes many Canadian values we think: family,loyalty,love of nature,grace, dignity,fierce independence and self-sufficiency to name just a few.

Thank you for leading this worthwhile project...long overdue.

Just listening to them at night a cottage lake makes you fall in love with them.

I always liked watching them while canoeing.

Anybody who has ever camped in this country will remember the haunting call of the Loon at dusk and daybreak.
It is a symbol of every that is great about our "Outdoors".

Because its already on the loonie and because the canada goose leaves a big mess wherever they sleep.

This is an iconic Canadian Bird and one of the first we heard paddling in Ontario having recently arrived from the UK back in the 1970's. It has beautiful plumage in the mating season and I love the way they carry their young on their backs.

My personal plea: PLEASE DO NOT ENCOURAGE SUPPORT for the Whisky Jack/Gray Jay! On popular hiking destinations they tend to mob you having been fed (usually bread)by well meaning but misguided hikers. A most unpleasant experience is having a sandwich snatched from one's hand or have one land on one's head. So now, at a lunch break, we can brandish a hiking pole to discourage them flying close.

As we are camping on the shore of a northern lake, we sit quietly waiting for the sound that is so familiar to us... the cry of the loon. Whether we see other wildlife or not, the haunting and familiar sound of the loon lets us know that we are Canadians in Canada.

Hearing this bird's call always meant a summer fulfilled for me!

My family has been blessed to have a family cottage in the heart of the Haliburton Highlands since the beginning of the 1960's, and it is much a part of who we are. My first trip in 88, i was only a mere week old!

A core sight at our cottage were the collective of loons who shared that beautiful space with us. Its distinctive call has been a herald of summer for us and indeed of home. In those wild spaces of Canada's many lakes, the loon's call feels like a soothing reminder of the security and stability of the woods.

The loon is beautiful both to look at and to listen too. It's haunting cry is a mysterious sound that greats me in the early hours of a misty morning at the cottage. Finding him before he disappears under the water only to come up again a long way away. They are the perfect bird to represent our country.

i think the loon because i think it represent's canada the best

Classic association with a tranquil morning out canoeing-- a loon calling in the far side of a lake.

Nothing says Canada like the beautiful sounds of a loon on the lakes in our gorgeous country

I am 7 years old, and when I think of a bird for Canada I think of a Loon because its on the dollar. I like that it make a neat sound.

I have swum with the loons since childhood, paddled with them and watched the sunsets with their calls haunting the watery shadows. No other bird evokes such emotion ushering in the peace of the evening to come. May their sound echo forever as our national bird.

Nothing represents Canada more than the haunting call of the loon. We even have it on our money! The LOONIE!!

The Common Loon is represented on our dollar coin and belongs in the records as the national bird. It has a beautiful sound which seduces its audience.

There are many places in Canada, if you really stop and listen you will here the call of the Loon. The call often matches how you are feeling when you hear it. Quiet reflection,solitude, aloneness, privileged adventurer, spring awakening, there is a call to match each emotion. We liked it enough to put it on our money, it really is iconic of our natural existence.

Also it is not nearly as obnoxious as a Canada Goose.......

They are beautiful and their call makes me cry.

The haunting sound of the loon's call is a reminder of soothing times in a happy place. They are a sign of a healthy lake and a flourishing ecosystem. They evoke a pleasant emotion like no other bird can for me.

This is Canada's most annoying resident. From one end of the country to the other, the common loon's haunting calls can be heard breaking the silence of the calmest lake and waking you at the faintest crack of dawn that creeps over the hill sides. God I hate loons, but of all other birds that grace this country the homely cry of the loon is a true test to the passive nature of Canadians.

The Loon is found in every province and territory in Canada and the national bird must be present in all of Canada.

The loon makes the most beautiful sound at night and morning when I'm in the Ontario lakes. And it blends in with the Ontario lakes, making sounds that are peaceful and quiet.

We live on a lake in Northern BC, and there is nothing so soothing as a loon's call in the evening. It is the perfect reminder that we live in a beautiful setting.

Loon-symbol of freedom with its haunting call, beautiful markings, red eyes and sleek body designed for speed in the water.

The Loon is of course, perhaps most evocative of the 'Canadian' experience... must be our national bird (not only that, but having it as our national bird would be a grounding for protecting wetlands...".

The sound of the Loon on a quiet night is a lonely but beautiful sound. The one bird that everyone knows the call of. Would be a perfect symbol of the Canadian wildlife with the Canada Goose a close second.

Go to a waterway , & if your lucky , you will see a Loon.. Listen for their Call. It will touch your heart. I so hope other Canadians agree.

This is not a formal essay by any means. I just wanted to say that I guarantee nine out of ten people already think the national bird is the loon. If anything but the loon were to win, then this would be a failed project. I mean, come on...it's even on our national currency.

Geese are aggressive
Canada is not aggressive
Geese =/= Canada

The beautifully haunting calls of the Loon echo over all the lakes in Canada and about the hills of Nova Scotia where I often hear them.

The lion's call is loved throughout rural Canada. Wherever there are lakes there are lion's. Their song fills all Canadian's with a deep felt sadness for times past and a joy for living, even for a short weekend, in Canada's wilderness. We all feel an excitement in the wilderness, even if it's just a campground, and the Loons song enhances that feeling. The Loons song speaks of times past and of current days. It's a wonderful Canadian experience.

I love it!

There is no bird that I can identify that is more Canadian than the loon. Nothing more beautiful and haunting than the loon on a lake calling. Complete peace and beauty.

I remember the call of the loon in the mornings when I was working in the woods. It was a calming sound to wake up to and sip my coffee.

Figuring centrally in hauntingly beautiful ancient native stories & thrilling mystical mythology, it is, as only truly favoured characters are, known by several names: big loon, black-billed loon, call-up-a-storm, ember-goose, greenhead, guinea duck, imber diver, ring-necked loon, and walloon. Diving upward unchanged from the depths of its origins millions of years behind us; enchantingly alerting us to our present fate through its position within the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds; and singing a tremolo which brings all those who would listen face to face with the future as it migrates flying, with its neck outstretched, up to speeds of 120 km/h (75 mph)... . . this northerner has a voice for every situation and enunciates each one with discretion as well as commanding leadership and diplomacy.

Thee is simply no other choice. I considered the Canada Goose but what romanticism is there? What elegance and spirit? Having travelled and lived overseas, I can tell you that nothing evokes home to me more than the call of loon. Nothing.

The common Loon is a beautifully marked bird with a wonderful call that is so distinctive and this bird is noted in First Nation stories as well making it truly representative our wonderful country.

As a child in Manitoba I'd often here the haunting call of a loon. Once you've heard it, you never, ever forget. One of nature's audio masterpieces
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ENNzjy8QjU

Having lived in Seven of the provinces and two of the Territories and visited all 13, I have enjoyed the Common Loon everywhere.

The common loon is anything but common. I have appreciated it since I was a kid growing up on the prairies when the Hinterland Who's Who commercials would come on TV. The eerie sound of it's many calls with it's ability to dive and stay underwater make the common loon a special bird to me. When I moved to BC as a young adult I spent many days in the wilderness with my work and camping on weekends and holidays. The commercials are nothing compared to hearing and seeing a loon in it's natural habitat. The loon truly does symbolize Canada's wilderness. Someone taught me many years ago to cup my hands together and blow between my thumbs to make two or three of the loon calls. Many times I have told my wife the loons reply to my calls. We are fortunate enough to live close enough to a lake where we can go to sleep at night and wake up in the morning to the sound of a loon calling. What a great way to end a day and start the next!

I hear the call of the loon and I think of Canada

I would love the loon to win! I have many fond memories listening to them while we were at our cottage in Temagami.

Exceptional species that represents our wildlife and waterways through out the country. The Loon has a call that is as unique as our country is diverse and as solitary as our vast lands it lives in.

The loon is a truly, national Bird and its call has become synonymous with Canada. It is only fitting that it be recognized, 'officially' as Our national bird as it already is, 'unofficially'!

loon is common bird in Sask-many artists choose it to pain,photo etc. good choice for national bird. also make it protected species if chosen.

This bird is very beautiful and it's haunting song on a warm summer night is a signature characteristic of the wilderness of this country. There is no doubt of who/what is making it's song and nothing I know of can duplicate the sound.

Is there really any question? What better symbol of the True North Strong and Free, from Far and Wide, Oh Canada, we vote the loon for thee!

there is no sound more beautiful than a loon in the mist

The Loon is on the looney - wrap it up in a nice bow!

The sound of tranquility, the sound of wilderness, the sound of Canada.

Aside from being featured on Canadian currency, the Loon is considered a bird of the north country, having both distinctive features and sound. It is widely recognized and synonymous with wild places.

love them, so Canadian!

Beautiful, haunting call ..... may describe both the bird and my memories of it, memories that span a lifetime. Wilderness lakes, fresh early mornings or late summer afternoons, the quiet splash of a canoe paddle hitting the water or gazing from the shoreline after setting or breaking up camp amidst the towering forest. The smell of nature, perhaps a breeze singing through the treetops, the rustle of unseen little creatures stirring through the low lying bushes. The loon makes one pause..... to listen.... waiting for it's next call, not wanting for it to stop, basking in it's aftermath when it does, a smile lingers and my heart has been softened. I continue on my way........

For as long as I can remember, I have loved the call of the loon. Hearing it frequently on lakes in Northern Ontario while visiting my grandparents, while camping with our family and when we owned a cottage in the Kawartha Lakes. To me, the Loon represents Canada, through and through.
I have always been fascinated by its intricate markings, it's mating and nesting habits, the way they raise their young and it's haunting call. I am always thrilled to see or hear a loon as I have travelled throughout Canada.
The loon is so unique and is truly a "Canadian" . Wild and beautiful as is much of Canada. 😊

Cet oiseau magnifique, plongeur et nageur exceptionnel, nous interpelle par son chant, un appel au romantisme et au rêve. Le Canada est un pays où tous les rêves sont permis et on ne peut rester indifférent losqu'on entend cet oiseau appeler sa douce moitié ou ses amis huards.

Ça fait très canadien comme oiseau.

Parce que le harfang des neiges est déjà l'animal emblème du Québec et que je vote stratégiquement pour pas nous faire voler notre symbole.

Camping with my family beside a mountain lake I heard my first loon. I was only 7 but that sound has stayed with me my entire life.

The Loon is just a beautiful bird & the sound they make is very nice to hear in the wild. Just beautiful if you are ever so fortunate to see a Loon family swimming on a lake.SD2JY

Its call is Canada's signature

The sound of the loon is so unique and distinct. The loon is already on our dollar coin. It should be our national bird.

The loon is good, we told our tour guide at La Louvre that the loon is the national bird, so we don't want to look stupid if he actually looks it up for some reason. It's also on the money, and the caribou is not a bird, nor is the Bluenose II. Also the Canadarm, polar bear and Queen are ineligible due to the fact that they are also not birds. This makes the only logical decision to be the loon. Don't be loony. Or be loony because that infers loons.

Loon is most associated with Canada’s beauty and wildness. I cannot imagine in a cottage without hearing loon calls.

OoohooOoOohooOo, that's was a loon call that I just made and not many people out side of Canada can do that so it should be our national bird.

The Loon had always been that bird that lets me know I am home. It is the bird that lets me know summer is here. It is the bird that stirs something within me when I paddle my kayak within its sight.

The loon is an amazing and gorgeous water bird. It is found all across Canada and is known for it's much loved haunting calls.

We have traveled across Canada in our RV, from Newfoundland to British Columbia. Also the Yukon and northern Alberta, BC, Saskatchewan, Ontario. The Loon is present everywhere. It's such a beautiful sound to hear when camping.

I think the haunting sound of the loon's call just says ,Canada . When canoeing and backpacking in Algonquin Park in Ontario you can here that distinctive loon call at night as it carries over the water to your ears . I remember meeting a nice young couple from New Zealand one year at a portage .In our conversation they asked ,"What is that sound at night and they tried to imitate the loons call. I thought for a minute and said " Oh that's just the wolves calling at night ". Their eyes bulged and they said ,"Wolves" I laughed and explained ,You know that black and white bird you see on the lake ,usually in pairs or with a chick,well that is what makes that sound ". They laughed and and were relieved that it was not wolves .

Rien de plus Canadien qu'un lac calme et son huard !

There is nothing like hearing the call of a loon over misty waters on a Canadian lake.

Canada has already unofficially designated the loon as the national bird - not only is it on our $1 currency, the colloquial name for said coin is taken from the bird's name. Additionally, in the Birds Of Canada bank note series, the loon was represented on the most common and therefore prestigious note, the $20. But even besides this, what bird better captures our true north, strong and free, than this bird of forests and lakes with its familiar, haunting call?

For me, it is a difficult choice between two iconic Canadian symbols, the Common Loon and the Snowy Owl. I voted for the loon largely because most Canadians are much more likely to observe and experience loons than owls. Additionally, its presence is more often detected by hearing its well-known call than by seeing the bird. I think it is important that people have a chance of seeing our national bird, and for most people, owls are rarely seen.

It looks to me like the loon is in every province and territory. This certainly qualifies it to be the NATIONAL bird. When we hear the beautiful, haunting call of the loon on a calm evening we know that all is right with the world..... even when it isn't.

The call of the loon is synonymous with Canada's many lakes, which is what makes it so iconic.

The Loon YES !!! an amazing bird, just as CANADA is an amazing Country

jJe croyais déjà que le Huard était l'emblème du Canada étant déjà sur la pièce de monnaie.

Je vote donc pour car il est beau et se reproduit beaucoup

Il est particulier

The loon is a peaceful bird and inspires a sense of serenity and well-being, as I hope Canada does in all who are within her borders.

The loon with ils grace, it's haunting, moving call is by far the most representative bird of our land. It deserves tro be Canada's national bird.

Common Loon live on Buck Lake and are great to hear and see..

Anytime I think of a Canadian summer, I think of my friend on the lake - the loon. So that is my truest connection to a Canadian Bird.

The common loon, graced on our one dollar coin, has a magnificent cry that echoes down the inland lakes so prolific in the Canadian landscape. Early morning or sunset, you can hear them, calling out to one another, warning of danger to their nest, of approaching predators, or just to locate one another. They mate for life, and return to the same nesting grounds each year, qualities of lasting loyalty and grace representative of the stalwart, hearty Canadians that share this land and waters with them.

The loon can be seen nation-wide and is already very familiar because of its place on our dollar coin. Anyone who has ever heard the loon's distinctive, haunting call across a northern lake will never forget it. The loon is also associated with water and Canada is known for its abundance of lakes. So I believe the loon to be an excellent choice for our National Bird.

It's found all over Canada

My grandmas favourite bird

No essay. The loon represents the wild wilderness of our large country. It is a lovely creature that portrays a positive image.

I just love the sound and the look of the loon. They remind me of the tranquility and peace and beauty of the parks and waterlands I've visited in Canada.

The iconic loon says it all

The loon is found right across our great country and has the look of a proud majestic bird. Very attractive simply black and white. Love it's call!

Great bird

The loon is a beautifully coloured bird with a call that is so mystic it sends shivers down the spine.

I chose the Common Loon because to me it depicts the character of the part of Canada that I live in . Anyone can visit the lake areas all across our country and see one , or a family of loons paddling down a lake. Also, they have a distinctive call.

Visitors to our country can look for the loons and appreciate their beauty and habits which I feel is important in a national bird .

Pat Kingdon

I chose this bird because it can go under water for five minutes.

you should vote the common loon because it is a very good swimmer.

The loon is in all provinces and is enjoyable to watch. It is a great sighting. We enjoyed them while living in the Maritimes.

I voted for the Common Loon. Partially due to the fact the loon is on Canadian currency.

Really my vote is for anything but the Canada Goose.

To me the haunting call of the Common Loon represents the wilderness of Canada.

The haunting call of the loon
the graceful gliding pace
follows the path of the moon
a necklace frames her face

The loon is the ultimate call of the wild on multi lakes ,river and common water bodies . A BEAUTIFUL BIRD THAT HAS SUCH STRIKNG CALLS AND PLUMMAGE.

To be on a calm, waveless lake, on a kayak, silence all around....and having a loon or 2 swim up, dive around you, check you out all the while uttering their awesome sounds, and to view the colors up close! is just breathtaking!

The common loon reflects a n iconic waterfowl species that is found throughout. canada .

It's Call is so indicative of the scene landscape that represents canada .

I think the Common Loon should be the National bird of Canada because it has a unique call and it lives all over Canada.
It is normally 10 pounds and 2 feet long.
Its eggs are 5.5-5.7 centimeters wide and 8.8-9 centimeters long. Their babies are brown when they are born and they have to stay on land. They can only eat frogs, crayfish, snails and minnows.
It has two homes in the summer it is all over Canada and in the winter it migrates down south to Florida and in the United States.
They are torpedo shaped, and has a white necklace around its neck, has webbed feet, a black checkerboard coat on its back and a long pointed mouth.
The Common Loon has bright red eyes for seeing underwater and it also dives more than 200 feet deep.
That is why I think the Common Loon should be the national bird of Canada!

by:Mackenzie(age 9)

The loon's call is the call of the wild. It always makes me stop everything & just listen.

What's there to say? The haunting call of the loon at dusk, echoing off the granite cliffs around the lake, as I'm getting my campfire going for the evening. That speaks "Canada" to me.

So many lakes in Canada where this beautiful bird can easily be seen, heard and identified makes it a great ''contender'' for the title!

I chose the Common Loon because it lives on my lake at my cottage, and I like the sound they make

I hope that this will be Canada's National Bird!

Well, we already have the loon on our money, so it seems a fitting choice! Plus, it is a very beautiful bird with an unusual and haunting call.

The Common Loon is a bird that resides all across Canada.

The common loon is icon to Canada's backcountry and rugged lifestyle.

Love to hear the sound of the loon at night

This is one of only a few avians that is most commonly seen in Canada and hence can be taken as representative of the country. Yes, on occasion it may be spotted elsewhere but it's home range is Canada. As well, it has been adopted as one of the items of national currency (the loonie). What better way to solidify a national symbol?

Totally dig the call of the wild!! Wild and free... That's Canada.

They are everywhere in Canada and are very familiar to all Canadians, as they are on our one dollar coin.

Growing up in the Caribou region in British Columbia I noticed loons on the lakes as a young girl. Their call echoed across waters heralding the coming summer.Today at our summer place they often feed in our bay. My favorite thing to do is kayak close to them and observe their habits and take photos.
To me they represent what is so special about our lakes and nature.They are legendary.

The common loon has a haunting sound when heard on a lake. Reminds us of camping by lakes from Ontario to British Columbia. We saw it once carrying babies on its back when boating on The Lake of the Woods in Ontario. We are sure they can be found across our lovely country.

The Loon is such a beautiful bird and its call is so beautiful. I always think of the Loon as Canadian. I hope this bird wins.

I do not require an actual essay to define my choice. Though I enjoy many of the species the list presented, the haunting call of the Loon will always steal my breath and cause me to reflect.

They are such pretty birds and I really like the colours and they sound very pretty.

It is a good colour. I like the sound of it when I go to sleep.

Yah yah yah I know, it's on the loonie. Woop-tee-do. But having decided to go with the loon on an analytical level - range in every province, pan-Canadian symbolism, etc - it was like an epiphany that goes beyond the ornithological. It isn't even fair to compare the loon with birds, when you consider the "added values" that it brings to the competition: the immediate and memorable impression that it makes acoustically, the fact that it howls on still nights over vast stretches of calm water or laughs as it flies like an arrow before rain, and you can imitate its call with your fingers or a blade of grass and it will answer, the ballet of it stretching or flapping as it calls, the jewellery of it in shape and pattern, the underwater speed and diving depth and lethal fisher, lifelong mating and carries its young on its back, and I have to stop 'cause the wife says I'm getting too excited. I just want to add before she comes back into the room that it's difficult to even conceive of it as a mortal animal, because it's Blakian among all creatures, like his tiger tiger burning bright. I've never been so certain of anything in my entire life even if ther wuz a bird that called "eh, eh, eh" and wouldn't never change my mind even if I have myself frozed so as I can wake up in, like, 3015 and all the loons are zombies that attack people.

Our family fondly remembers camping at Loon Lake Saskatchewan and the call of the loons in the early morning ours. It was magical and very Canadian