The bald eagle, a majestic symbol of American freedom and resilience, has finally received its official designation as the national bird of the United States. On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed a bill into law, cementing the bald eagle’s status which, surprisingly, had never been formally codified despite its prominent presence in American iconography for over two centuries. This legislative action amends Title 36 of the United States Code, officially recognizing the bald eagle as one of the nation’s most cherished emblems. The bill enjoyed unanimous support in both houses of Congress, reflecting the widespread reverence for this iconic bird of prey. This formal recognition corrects a long-standing oversight, solidifying the bald eagle’s place as a national symbol.
While the bald eagle has been featured on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782, enjoying its own dedicated holiday and protection act, it had never technically been designated the “national bird.” It was, however, designated the national emblem by the U.S. Congress in the same year, a distinction that underpinned its widespread use in official government imagery. The eagle’s image graces official documents, the presidential flag, military insignia, and even currency, showcasing its profound symbolic importance to the nation. This new legislation merely formalizes a status that has long been implicitly understood and accepted by the American public.
The signing of this bill corrects a historical anomaly, where the bald eagle’s status as a national symbol was widely assumed but lacked explicit legal recognition. The previous absence of this official designation created a technical ambiguity, even though the bald eagle’s importance as a national emblem was never in question. The oversight was highlighted by a document published by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which incorrectly referred to the bald eagle as the national bird. This discrepancy, while seemingly minor, underscores the importance of formalizing the bald eagle’s status through proper legislative channels.
The unanimous passage of this bill through Congress signals a bipartisan appreciation for the bald eagle’s significance. This unity highlights the bird’s unifying power as a national symbol, transcending political divides. The White House acknowledged the contributions of Senators Klobuchar, Lummis, Mullin, and Smith, and Representatives Finstad, Craig, and Emmer, for their leadership in championing this legislation. Their efforts culminated in the successful passage and signing of the bill, finally securing the bald eagle’s rightful place as the official national bird of the United States.
The bald eagle’s journey to becoming the national bird reflects the nation’s own history. Once facing extinction due to habitat loss and pesticide use, the bald eagle has made a remarkable recovery thanks to conservation efforts. Its resilience mirrors the American spirit and its resurgence symbolizes the nation’s capacity for renewal. This powerful narrative of survival and recovery further strengthens the bald eagle’s symbolic resonance.
The bald eagle’s formal designation as the national bird solidifies its position as a potent symbol of American identity. Its image evokes feelings of patriotism, strength, and freedom. This legislation not only clarifies its status but also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to preserving this majestic bird and the values it represents. The bald eagle will continue to inspire future generations, serving as a constant reminder of the nation’s enduring spirit and its ongoing pursuit of liberty and justice.
