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with a casual comment at “Can you believe Canada still doesn’t have a national bird?” Canada’s 150th was around the corner, so with the help of our National Conservation Partners at Bird Studies Canada, we chose the 40 most “Canadian” birds of the 450 with habitat in the country. Then tens of thousands of Canadians agreed — we need a national bird — and they voted and shared their opinions (see “The people’s choice,” page 38). We brought the idea to federal government ministers. We looked to ornithologists, conservationists and Indigenous Peoples for their expertise and held a debate (see “The great national bird debate,” page 40). In the end, one bird best met all reasonable criteria: found in every province and territory but not already one of their official birds; nearly exclusive to Canada and a year-round resident; not hunted; and important to Indigenous Peoples (see “Our national bird,” page 42). Without further ado, we give you the gray jay. Also known as the whiskey jack or Canada jay, it is official recommendation for National Bird of Canada. office.