White Admiral Becomes Official Insect

Summary#

• This bill would add the white admiral butterfly as Quebec’s official insect.

• It changes the law on Quebec’s flag and emblems to include this new symbol.

• It would take effect once the National Assembly passes it and it is signed into law.

• Names the white admiral (Limenitis arthemis arthemis) as an official emblem of Quebec.

• Does not create any new rules, penalties, or programs.

• Lets the government use the insect symbol in publications, education, and tourism.

• Purely symbolic: it does not give the insect special legal protection.

What it means for you#

• Residents

  • You may see the white admiral on government websites, posters, and tourism material.
  • No changes to your daily life, rights, or responsibilities.

• Students and teachers

  • Schools may use the butterfly in lessons about nature and Quebec identity.
  • Museums and science centers may feature it in displays and activities.

• Community and culture groups

  • May use the emblem in events, guides, and outreach to promote local nature.

• Businesses and tourism operators

  • May include the emblem in marketing if they choose. There is no requirement to do so.

• Government agencies and municipalities

  • May update visuals and educational materials to include the emblem when practical.

Expenses#

Estimated one-time cost: minimal (small updates to materials and websites).

• Minor administrative work to update the law text and government web pages.
• Optional reprinting of posters, brochures, or educational materials over time.
• No ongoing program funding is created by this bill.

Proponents' View#

• Celebrates Quebec’s natural heritage and adds a clear, recognizable symbol.
• Helps teach children about local biodiversity and respect for nature.
• Low-cost way to promote pride and identity across the province.
• Can support tourism and public outreach by highlighting a native species.
• Complements Quebec’s other emblems (flag, flower, tree) with an insect.

Opponents' View#

• Mostly symbolic and does not address habitat loss or species protection.
• Some may prefer a different insect as the emblem.
• Uses legislative time for a change with limited practical impact.
• Minor costs to update materials, with little direct benefit to services.