The bald eagle, recognized as the long-standing symbol of the United States, has officially been declared the nation’s national bird after President Joe Biden signed new legislation on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024. This momentous decision rectifies a historical oversight, as, surprisingly, the bird had not been formally designated as the national bird until now, even though it has represented American ideals since its image was adopted on the Great Seal of the United States back in 1782.
Upon signing the legislation, Biden emphasized the significance of the bald eagle, stating its official recognition reflects values such as freedom and strength, which resonate deeply within the American spirit. This beloved bird, known for its characteristic white head, yellow beak, and majestic brown feathers, now holds the formal title many believed it had always possessed.
The initiative to officially designate the bald eagle as the national bird gained momentum thanks to Minnesota resident Preston Cook. Cook developed a fascination with the bald eagle over decades, raising questions about why the bird had never been recognized officially by the U.S. Congress. His exploration for proof of the eagle’s status led him to write to lawmakers, igniting efforts to address what he found to be lacking—a formal declaration.
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar championed Cook’s bill as it moved through Congress. Klobuchar described Minnesota as home to one of the largest bald eagle populations, underscoring the importance of safeguarding this national treasure. “Bald eagles reflect the strength, courage, and resilience of our country,” Klobuchar stated. The bill sailed through both the Senate and the House of Representatives without opposition, underscoring the bipartisan commitment to protecting this iconic species.
Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, declared, “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.” This sentiment resonates with many who view the eagle not just as a bird but as an emblem of American ethos.
Despite its prominent representation, the bald eagle has not always enjoyed universal acclaim. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously objected to its designation as the national symbol, once referring to it as “a bird of bad moral character” and favored the turkey instead. Still, the eagle was chosen to grace the Great Seal, where it would symbolize the United States alongside the olive branch and arrows, epitomizing peace and readiness for conflict.
The story of the bald eagle was not just one of symbolism; it also involves conservation and recovery. The species faced dramatic decline due to habitat destruction, pesticide use, and hunting practices throughout the mid-20th century, dwindling to just 417 nesting pairs by 1963. This led to congressional action, culminating with the Bald Eagle Protection Act, which prohibited any harm to the eagle. Thanks to these efforts, today, its population has rebounded to approximately 316,700 individuals, with thriving nests across the United States.
Looking forward, challenges endure for the bald eagle, particularly concerning climate change. Experts warn of diminishing habitats and shifting prey availability, which might threaten the delicate ecosystems these majestic birds inhabit. “It is only a correction in history to make things right and makes things the way they should be,” Cook remarked, highlighting the importance of this legislation during such uncertain times.
With its newfound status, the bald eagle stands poised to embody the resilience of the American people, symbolizing the nation’s enduring commitment to conservation and the exemplary spirit of its wildlife. Its recognition as the national bird is more than just legislative formality; it symbolizes unity, courage, and the connection between the nation’s history and its natural heritage.
This decision also serves as a reminder of how far the eagle has come—from the brink of extinction to soaring high as the symbol of the United States, where it belongs. The legacy of the bald eagle as not merely the next chapter of history, but as part of the American identity, is now solidified for generations to come.
