Washington, D.C. – The bald eagle, a longstanding symbol of American strength and freedom, has officially been designated as the national bird of the United States.
President Joe Biden signed the landmark legislation into law on Christmas Eve 2024, correcting a 250-year oversight.
While the bald eagle has appeared on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 and is widely regarded as a national emblem, it had never been formally recognized as the national bird.
The bipartisan bill, which passed through Congress with overwhelming support, was part of a broader legislative package addressing various national issues.
But, wasn’t the bald eagle always America’s national bird?
“The bald eagle has been a symbol of our nation for generations,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, who championed the legislation. “It’s time we formally recognize its importance.” Minnesota, home to a large population of bald eagles, played a key role in advancing the bill.
Despite its prominent role in American culture and government, many citizens mistakenly believed the bald eagle was already officially designated as the national bird.
This legislation puts an end to that misconception, granting the bird its rightful status.
Impact on Culture
The bald eagle’s symbolism runs deep in American history. It has appeared on currency, military insignia, and government documents for over two centuries.
During the Apollo 11 moon landing, astronaut Neil Armstrong famously declared, “The Eagle has landed,” further cementing its place in the nation’s identity.
“This is more than a symbolic gesture,” President Biden said during the signing ceremony. “It’s a recognition of the values this bird represents—freedom, resilience, and hope.”
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A Conservation Success Story
The designation also highlights the bald eagle’s remarkable comeback. Once endangered due to habitat destruction, hunting, and pesticide use, the species was on the brink of extinction by the mid-20th century.
Conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT and habitat restoration, helped the bird recover. In 2007, the bald eagle was removed from the endangered species list, a milestone celebrated by wildlife advocates.
Today, the bald eagle remains federally protected under laws prohibiting harm or exploitation. Its recovery is often cited as one of the greatest success stories in American wildlife conservation.
A Symbol for the Future
The official designation reinforces the bald eagle’s role as an enduring emblem of American ideals. “The eagle’s recovery reminds us of what we can achieve when we work together to protect our environment,” Biden noted.
With this new recognition, the bald eagle’s legacy as a national icon is now firmly enshrined in U.S. law. It stands not only as a symbol of the nation’s strength and freedom but also as a testament to the power of resilience and conservation.