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the final votes were cast for the 40 species that were contenders for the title of Canada’s national bird, spoke to explorer and author Sir Christopher Ondaatje ( about the magazine’s National Bird Project. Here is an excerpt of that talk, during which Ondaatje discussed everything from bird-inspired memories to a Canadian short film classic, John James Audubon, literature and more. I’d choose the common loon — although the word “common” shouldn’t be there, because it is not at all common. I’ve seen a female loon carry its chicks on its back. It’s an incredible sight. Plus, it’s difficult not to think of an aquatic bird when you think of Canada, which has about 20 per cent of the world’s fresh water. Oh, yes. When I’m homesick for Canada, the loon’s call reminds me of Meisners Island, which is just outside the harbour at Chester, Nova Scotia, where my family goes every summer. It’s the only place that I want to be and where I hope I will end my days. The loon’s plaintive cry is what I remember most when I find myself wishing I was there. Anyone who has seen Canadian director F.R. “Budge” Crawley’s short film

OT LONG AFTER The five finalists of the National Bird Project are the common loon, the Canada goose, the snowy owl, the black-capped chickadee and the gray jay. Which of those birds would you choose to be the country’s national bird, and why?

The National Bird Project has aroused great interest among Canadians. What film or book would you recommend to those who are interested in learning more about birds?