In a historic move, the bald eagle has been officially designated as the national bird of the United States following President Joe Biden's signature on Christmas Eve.
Bald Eagle Officially Declared National Bird of the U.S. After 250 Years
Bald Eagle Officially Declared National Bird of the U.S. After 250 Years
President Biden signs legislation formalizing the bald eagle as the national bird after decades of unofficial status.
The bald eagle now carries the honored title of the national bird after nearly 250 years of being a national symbol, as President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on Christmas Eve. Once depicted on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782, the eagle, characterized by its white head and yellow beak, finally received the official recognition it deserved. "For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't," remarked Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative at the National Eagle Center. "But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving."
The significance of the bald eagle as a symbol of strength, courage, freedom, and immortality has been affirmed over generations, despite initial objections from figures like Benjamin Franklin, who criticized its moral character. The bird's indigenous status to North America further bolsters its representation of the nation.
The legislation, driven by lawmakers from Minnesota—home to one of the country’s largest populations of bald eagles—has added to the growing appreciation for these majestic birds. As a protected species under the National Emblem Act of 1940, bald eagles have rebounded from the brink of extinction since 2009.
President Biden’s signing of the bald eagle bill was part of a larger legislative effort on Christmas Eve, which included 50 bills aimed at promoting safety and well-being across various sectors.
The significance of the bald eagle as a symbol of strength, courage, freedom, and immortality has been affirmed over generations, despite initial objections from figures like Benjamin Franklin, who criticized its moral character. The bird's indigenous status to North America further bolsters its representation of the nation.
The legislation, driven by lawmakers from Minnesota—home to one of the country’s largest populations of bald eagles—has added to the growing appreciation for these majestic birds. As a protected species under the National Emblem Act of 1940, bald eagles have rebounded from the brink of extinction since 2009.
President Biden’s signing of the bald eagle bill was part of a larger legislative effort on Christmas Eve, which included 50 bills aimed at promoting safety and well-being across various sectors.
