Ward 5 Coun. Corey Gardi will ask city council on Monday to look into seeking Bird Friendly City recognition from Nature Canada.
A resolution to be moved by Gardi and seconded by ward-buddy Matthew Scott points out that bird populations have dropped more than 25 per cent over the past half-century, and Sault Ste. Marie is home to many bird species, including migratory birds.
The Gardi/Scott resolution doesn't mention that roaming cats are said by Nature Canada to kill between 100 million and 350 million birds annually, accounting for up to 75 per cent of the nation's bird fatalities.
Nature Canada's criteria for bird-friendly certification strongly favour cities that use education, policy and bylaw enforcement to control and reduce populations of roaming cats.
"Cities can become a safer place for birds and cats alike," the organization says.
Other suggested measures include treating and retrofitting buildings with large glass windows to be more noticeable for birds, and bylaws reducing or eliminating pesticides known to cause harm to birds either directly or indirectly.
Monday's city council meeting will be livestreamed on SooToday starting at 4:30 p.m.
The following is the full text of the Gardi/Scott resolution:
Nature Canada: Bird Friendly City Certification Program
Mover Councillor C. Gardi
Seconder Councillor M. Scott
Whereas North American bird populations are declining at alarming rates, having dropped by more than 25 per cent in the last 50 years; and
Whereas Nature Canada has developed a certification standard to certify eligible cities as a 'Bird Friendly City,' to recognize and celebrate the contributions they have made to save bird lives in their municipalities; and
Whereas the goal of certification is to provide communities with a clear standard that reflects what a city needs to do to make it safe for birds; and
Whereas the City of Sault Ste. Marie and its surrounding area is home to many different species of birds, including several migratory bird species; and
Whereas there are many individuals and groups who already admire and monitor birds, as well as being engaged in efforts to protect birds;
Now therefore be it resolved that staff be requested to explore the Bird Friendly City Certification Program to learn more about the criteria involved to join the program and report back to council on working with community partners to attain a Bird Friendly City designation through Nature Canada.