US Declare Bald Eagle As National Bird After 250 Years

On Christmas Eve 2024, President Joe Biden signed a historic law officially designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. Although the bald eagle has been an enduring emblem of the country, appearing on the Great Seal of the US since 1782, it was never formally recognized as the national bird until this legislation. Spearheaded by lawmakers from Minnesota, this decision honors the bald eagle’s symbolic representation of strength, courage, and freedom while acknowledging its remarkable recovery from near extinction.

Key Highlights

Official Designation

• Law Signed: December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve)
• Legislation Origin: Passed by Congress, spearheaded by Minnesota lawmakers
• Significance: Marks the official designation of the bald eagle as the US national bird after nearly 250 years of unofficial status.

Historical Context

• Great Seal of the US: Bald eagle has appeared on the seal since 1782, symbolizing strength and freedom.
• Past Controversy: Founding Father Benjamin Franklin opposed the bald eagle, calling it a “bird of bad moral character.”
• Support: Despite objections, Congress recognized the bald eagle’s symbolic value and its indigenous status in North America.

Conservation Status

• Protected Under: National Emblem Act of 1940, which prohibits hunting or selling bald eagles.
• Recovery: Once near extinction, the population has significantly increased since 2009.

Symbolism

• Attributes: Represents strength, courage, freedom, and immortality.
• Unique to North America: Indigenous only to the continent, setting it apart from other eagle species.

Legislation Details

• Proponents: Minnesota lawmakers highlighted the state’s large bald eagle population.
• Other Laws Signed: On the same day, Biden also signed 50 other pieces of legislation, including a federal anti-hazing law.