In a ceremonial gesture, President Joe Biden has officially declared the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States after nearly 250 years of informal recognition. This monumental law was enacted on Christmas Eve, solidifying the status of the white-headed and yellow-beaked bird as an emblem of national pride.
The bald eagle has appeared prominently on the Great Seal of the U.S. since 1782, yet it did not receive formal recognition until legislation passed Congress and was forwarded to the President’s desk for signing. According to Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, this moment is important for acknowledging a bird "more deserving" of national recognition which has represented American ideals throughout history.
Despite its current status, there have always been differing opinions regarding the choice of the bald eagle as a national symbol. Notably, Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously opposed its designation, claiming it to be a "bird of bad moral character." Nevertheless, many Congress members, along with the general public, saw the bald eagle as a symbol of strength, courage, and freedom. Unique to North America, it is recognized widely for its inspiring representation of the nation’s spirit.
The legislation was driven by Minnesota lawmakers, with Senator Amy Klobuchar highlighting that the state hosts a significant bald eagle population. Furthermore, protective measures have long been in place for the species under the National Emblem Act of 1940, prohibiting the hunting or sale of these majestic birds. Following a significant recovery from the brink of extinction, the eagle population has rebounded since 2009.
The bill declaring the bald eagle as the national bird was among a series of laws signed by President Biden on the same day, which also included measures aimed at reducing violence on university campuses. This new designation marks an important distinction in the ongoing story of America’s relationship with its wildlife and national symbols.
