As someone who grew up…

As someone who grew up watching and enjoying birdwatching, I see the protection of bird habitat as deeply personal and essential. Birds are a vital part of Ontario’s identity, ecosystems, and the well-being of so many people across the province. From wetlands to forests and grasslands, the habitats birds rely on are irreplaceable, and this legislation fails to offer meaningful protection for them.

The proposed Species Conservation Act drastically weakens habitat protection by limiting it to nests and their immediate surroundings. This ignores the essential role that larger habitats play in the survival of migratory birds. Contrary to the government’s rationale, federal laws do not protect these habitats on provincial Crown or private land. Ontario must take responsibility and not shift that burden.

The current Endangered Species Act already provides a clear and effective framework for conserving at-risk species. Rather than dismantle it, the government should improve processes and address delays. Legal protection for bird habitat, especially on provincial Crown land, must continue. Private land protection should be encouraged through funding for conservation easements and support for land trusts, with an annual budget that reflects the urgency of this issue.

Finally, eliminating the requirement for recovery plans is irresponsible. Without these, the new Species Conservation Program cannot function effectively or guide businesses and citizens in protecting Ontario’s biodiversity. I urge the government to reverse these proposed changes and uphold its responsibility to protect the habitats birds and people alike depend on.