Bison Voted as Edmonton's Official Critter for 2026, Public to Choose Artwork
Edmonton has officially chosen the bison as its critter of the year for 2026, succeeding the magpie in this annual community-driven campaign. The selection celebrates North America's largest land animal, which once roamed the region in vast numbers, with millions crossing the area annually. This initiative aims to reawaken the historical and cultural significance of bison to Edmonton's identity.
Community Engagement and Artistic Designs
Michael Overduin, from the family business Edmonton River, is leading the campaign, which explores different animal species each year to co-create images that reimagine the city. "The city council said they would like some help from the citizens to co-create images that give people a reason to tell stories about it," Overduin explained. "We've been working with leaders and citizens, growing every year." The bison was suggested a year ago, prompting the development of various artistic designs with community input.
Past selections have included the beaver, honoring the Indigenous name for Edmonton, "beaver hills house." Overduin emphasized the bison's importance: "They meant so much to the First Nations. They were a source of food, shelter, clothing—you name it. They are amazing creatures critical for this region's life and livelihood for thousands of years."
Public Voting and Merchandise Plans
Edmonton River is now asking the public to vote for one of three images displayed on their website, edmontonriver.com. One design features both the bison and last year's magpie, with the magpie depicted cleaning insects from the bison's back. The winning design will be featured on T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and other merchandise available in shops around Edmonton. "People can get their merchandise and talk about their own stories about why the bison might mean something to them," Overduin said.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The bison's role in Edmonton's history is profound, with references in cultural works like the film "Singing Back the Buffalo" and Terry Lusty's song "Welcome Back Buffalo." Although plans for a bison statue at the Walterdale Bridge were changed, the animal remains a symbol of the region's heritage. Bison meat, lower in cholesterol than chicken and high in iron, is offered by local producers such as Thundering Ground Bison, True Grit Buffalo, and Alberta Bison, bringing a taste of this history to modern tables.
This campaign not only highlights the bison's ecological and cultural impact but also fosters community engagement through art and storytelling, ensuring Edmonton's rich history is celebrated and shared.
