Souris, Manitoba, faced an identity crisis when their historic swinging bridge was lost to flooding in 2011. A replacement bridge was constructed in 2013, but the community feared that tourists would not visit just to see the new bridge. However, a new tourist attraction emerged when a flock of peacocks from the town’s bird sanctuary was set free by the flood. Jim Ludlam, known as the peacock man, now cares for a small flock of peacocks in a barn and keeps tabs on the free-range flock of around 15 birds that roam the streets and yards during the warmer months. The town rounds up the birds in the fall to keep them safe from predators and warm over winter.
Despite some people’s concerns about the peacocks pecking at shiny truck bumpers and causing damage, the community has embraced the birds as a unique tourist draw. Manitoba Public Insurance has had two peacock-related claims in the past five years, both from Souris. Mayor Duane Davison acknowledges the peskiness of the peacocks but emphasizes that they have become an important part of the town’s tourist identity. Tourists have come from as far as Germany to see the peacocks, surpassing the swinging bridge as a main attraction. Pavo the Peacock, a massive metal tribute to the birds, is also a popular spot for visitors to take selfies.
As spring arrives, the peacocks come out of their winter hiding spots to once again roam the town. While some residents love the birds, others are not fans of their pecking and potential for damage. Ludlam notes that peacocks are hardier than people think, adapting to the cold weather despite originating from India where it is warm. The peacocks have become a sensation in Souris, with tourists flocking to the town to catch a glimpse of the beautiful birds. The community has embraced the peacock “phenomenon” as a unique aspect of their town’s identity.
Despite initial concerns about the loss of the swinging bridge affecting tourism, the peacocks have become a surprising tourist attraction for Souris. The town has welcomed visitors from around the world who come to see the colorful birds and take photos with Pavo the Peacock. While some residents may find the peacocks pesky, the majority of the community has embraced them as an important part of Souris’ identity and a draw for tourists. The peacocks have exceeded the swinging bridge as a tourist draw, with visitors traveling from far and wide to see the stunning birds in the quaint town of Souris, Manitoba.
