If there was a Canadian election for an official animal leader, who would win? We asked thousands of Bay of Quinte locals, and the responses did not disappoint! Here are the top picks and some of our favourite reasons why these creatures would (or wouldn’t) make great leaders.
The Beaver: Hardworking, Reliable, and Gets Things Done
“The beaver is the only one that gets the job done!”
“Hard-working—it’s work impacts so many lives.”
“Never gives up. Beavers work continually building homes and repairing them.”
“A beaver because they build infrastructure, and that’s what we need right now!”
Beavers don’t just work hard—they literally reshape the environment for the better.
The Moose: Big, Strong, and Unstoppable 🦌
“Just like the moose, we are a big and strong country!”
“Nobody messes with a moose. Beavers… not so much.”
“Presents bigger than life, they’re powerful, and they look after their own.”
“A moose is huge, quiet, and regal, but if you cross it, you better start running.”
Moose don’t start fights, but they sure know how to end them.
The Loon: Mysterious, Smart, and Kind of Iconic 🦢
“A loon so he can deal with border issues.”
“Loyal to its partners, can swim and fly with grace, and ever so haunting and beautiful when it speaks.”
“Honestly, have you heard their call? If a loon was Prime Minister, they wouldn’t even need a microphone.”
A true Canadian icon, the loon knows how to command attention and keep things calm under pressure.
The Bear: Strong, Protective, and Knows When to Take Action 🐻
“A bear doesn’t start fights, but it sure knows how to finish them.”
“Because you don’t poke the bear!!”
“Bear stands up and noisily gets its own way over immense obstacles!”
“A bear can be in control and knows how to make changes that are good for its cubs (the people) and protects them fiercely!”
Bears may seem laid-back, but they don’t hesitate when it’s time to take charge.
The Canada Goose: Fearless, Organized, and a Bit Scary 🪿
“Because they are truly deceptive with how dangerous they are, but they won’t bug you if you don’t bug them.”
“Beavers are resilient & hardworking, but geese? Best leave them alone!”
“The Canada Goose—fierce, loyal, and they always travel in a pack!”
A Canada goose doesn’t back down, leads with confidence, and honks its way through obstacles.
The Salmon: Determined and Resilient 🐟
“They fight against the current but always end up successful in their pursuit.”
“Salmon are determined to stay the course and respect their roots.”
“The salmon has the strength to go against the status quo.”
Salmon are proof that persistence pays off—no matter how tough the journey.
The Great Horned Owl: The Quiet, Strategic Leader 🦉
“Quiet, unobtrusive, most efficient and deadly of all raptors.”
“Strong and graceful, powerful. Peaceful until you agitate them, then they let you know who’s boss!”
“Owls know how to get things done without making a fuss.”
If Canada ever needed a leader who governs with wisdom and silence (instead of press conferences), the owl would be a top contender.
So, Who Would You Vote For? 🗳️
Would Canada be better off with a hardworking beaver, a commanding moose, or an unapologetic Canada goose at the helm? Or do we need the stealth of an owl, the determination of a salmon, or the sheer strength of a bear?
Let us know your pick! boq@yourcitytoday.ca
Results below:
