The bald eagle has now been officially declared the national bird of the United States following President Joe Biden's signature on a law this Christmas Eve. Previously an emblem of the nation seen on the Great Seal since 1782, the bald eagle lacked formal designation until Congress passed a bill specifically granting it this honor. Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative at the National Eagle Center, remarked, "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."
Despite its current status, the bald eagle’s representation has not always been consensus. Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation's Founding Fathers, famously criticized the bird, describing it as possessing a "bird of bad moral character." However, its image as a symbol of courage, strength, and freedom endured over the years, particularly due to its unique North American lineage.
Initiated by Minnesota lawmakers, the legislation underlines the state's significant bald eagle population, as noted by Senator Amy Klobuchar. The bald eagle is also protected by the National Emblem Act of 1940, making it illegal to hunt or sell them, highlighting its revered status. Once nearing extinction, bald eagle numbers have rebounded significantly since 2009. The national bird designation was one among 50 legislative measures signed by President Biden on Christmas Eve, which also included laws addressing campus violence and anti-hazing measures.
Despite its current status, the bald eagle’s representation has not always been consensus. Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation's Founding Fathers, famously criticized the bird, describing it as possessing a "bird of bad moral character." However, its image as a symbol of courage, strength, and freedom endured over the years, particularly due to its unique North American lineage.
Initiated by Minnesota lawmakers, the legislation underlines the state's significant bald eagle population, as noted by Senator Amy Klobuchar. The bald eagle is also protected by the National Emblem Act of 1940, making it illegal to hunt or sell them, highlighting its revered status. Once nearing extinction, bald eagle numbers have rebounded significantly since 2009. The national bird designation was one among 50 legislative measures signed by President Biden on Christmas Eve, which also included laws addressing campus violence and anti-hazing measures.
