It became the official bird of the Northwest Territories in 1990. The gyrfalcon is the largest and most magnificent of the falcons and breed throughout the tundra, including all the Arctic islands. They breed throughout the tundra, including all the Arctic islands. They usually spend the winter in the north and during that season can be found anywhere in the Northwest Territories. They range in color from white through shades of grey and brown to almost black.
Gyrfalcons eat mostly ptarmigan, but also ground squirrels, seabirds, waterfowl, and arctic hares.
They are expert hunters, and extremely fast and powerful fliers. The Mineral Emblem is gold. Gold has played a major role in the development and prosperity of the Northwest Territories. In May 1981, gold was proclaimed the Mineral Emblem symbolizing enduring value of wealth and the bright prospects and future of the Northwest Territories. The Flag was adopted by the Council of the Northwest Territories in January 1969.