It's official. Council has sworn in the peregrine falcon as Hamilton's city bird.

The unanimous vote Friday was a long time coming. Residents selected the peregrine falcon over a year ago in an online poll by Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington.

Co-founder Barry Coombs, who is now with Bird Song Hamilton, called the news "wonderful" and a real tribute to the many Hamilton Falconwatch volunteers who've watched over the birds nesting on top of the Sheraton Hotel for close to 30 years.

It's also symbolic of Hamilton.

"The peregrine falcon demonstrates resiliency and toughness and is a great choice," he said.

Peregrine falcons were almost driven to extinction by the historic use of DDT in pesticides but now are rebounding.

Coun. Cameron Kroetsch (Ward 2) had voted in the poll for the sparrow to become Hamilton's bird, but personal feelings aside, put forward the motion.

"But I deeply, deeply, deeply appreciate my second vote, the peregrine falcon," Kroetsch said.

Several other councillors shared their support for peregrine falcon and other birds.

"It's really important we mirror respect and love for our natural heritage and encourage our little people in particular to join the crusade," said Coun. Ted McMeekin (Ward 15).

Coun. Brad Clark called the peregrine falcon an "amazing bird" that soars high up on hot air currents and dives down for prey. He joked those living in downtown would be flying on hot air from city hall.

"We are the air beneath its wings," he said.

Coun. Alex Wilson (Ward 13) had voted in the poll for the red tail hawk, but seconded the motion.

"This is the beginning of the spirit of work on biodiversity," they said.

Hamilton is currently wrapping up public consultation on a new biodiversity action plan, which will guide the city in protecting and rehabilitating habitat and species, including birds, in the years to come.

Residents can share their thoughts in an online survey until Sunday.