The long-standing emblem of strength, significantly tied to American identity, is now formally recognized after nearly 250 years.
Bald Eagle Officially Recognized as National Bird of the US: A Historic Designation
Bald Eagle Officially Recognized as National Bird of the US: A Historic Designation
On Christmas Eve, President Biden signs legislation that designates the bald eagle as the official national bird.
In a historic move on Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden ratified legislation declaring the bald eagle as the official national bird of the United States, a title it has symbolically held for nearly 250 years. The bald eagle, characterized by its striking white head and yellow beak, is widely recognized from the Great Seal of the US, which has featured the bird since 1782. Despite its presence as a national emblem, it had never been formally designated as the national bird until recent Congressional action led to the law's signing.
Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative at the National Eagle Center, expressed his enthusiasm: "For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't. But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving." The eagle's image often appears on official government documents and is embraced as a symbol of strength, courage, and freedom.
This official recognition wasn't without controversy; notable Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously opposed the choice, denouncing the bald eagle as a "bird of bad moral character." However, supporters emphasized the unique attributes of this North American species, which differs from other eagles across the globe.
Spearheaded by Minnesota's lawmakers, the legislation highlights the significant bald eagle populations in the state, as noted by Senator Amy Klobuchar. The bald eagle has also benefitted from protective measures under the National Emblem Act of 1940, which prohibits its sale and hunting, helping to revive its population since near extinction in earlier decades.
This new designation was part of a suite of legislation signed into law by Biden on Christmas Eve, which included comprehensive laws addressing various national issues, such as a federal anti-hazing law aimed at enhancing safety on college campuses.
