The Current Did you know there were pelicans in Saskatchewan?
Mar 10, 2026
Brian Strong, mayor of Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan, a small-town leader with a fondness for local tradition. He talks about the town naming the American white pelican its official bird. Short segments cover the pelicans as a spring signal, community traditions like the Pelican Watch and rubber-duck race, and pelican-themed tourism and merchandise.
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Pelicans Mark Spring In Saskatchewan
- The American white pelican signals the true arrival of spring in parts of Saskatchewan.
- Since the late 1970s pelicans have summered along the South Saskatchewan River and their northward return is eagerly anticipated by locals.
Community Art Sparked The Official Bird Vote
- Fort Qu'Appelle formally adopted the pelican after a community beautification push featuring steel sculptures and lamp-post decorations.
- Mayor Brian Strong credited Community in Bloom volunteers Carol Gloa and Lynn Simmons for installing large and small pelican displays that spurred the official-bird nomination.
Rubber Duck Race Draws Summer Crowds
- The town runs an annual Fort Qu'Appelle River race as a popular summer fundraiser.
- The Lions Club races numbered rubber duckies down the river to draw crowds and raise money, tying into the town's summer tourism vibe when pelicans arrive.