Finally: Bald Eagle officially declared US national bird
The Bald Eagle has been officially designated as the national bird of the United States following President Joe Biden's signing of a law on Christmas Eve
For many years, the Bald Eagle has served as a national symbol, prominently featured on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782. However, it was only recently that Congress formally recognized it as the national bird, culminating in the bill's passage and subsequent signing by the President.
Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative at the National Eagle Center, remarked, "For nearly 250 years, we referred to the Bald Eagle as the national bird without official recognition. Now, this title is formalized, and no bird is more worthy of it."
Historically, there has been some debate regarding the Bald Eagle's status. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously criticized its selection, labeling it a "bird of bad moral character." Nevertheless, many in Congress disagreed with Franklin's view.
The Bald Eagle, like its global counterparts, has long been regarded as a symbol of strength, courage, freedom, and immortality, as noted by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Unique to North America, the Bald Eagle stands apart from other eagle species.
The initiative to designate the Bald Eagle as the national bird was led by lawmakers from Minnesota, a state known for having one of the largest populations of these majestic birds, as highlighted by Senator Amy Klobuchar.
Additionally, the Bald Eagle is protected under the National Emblem Act of 1940, which prohibits its sale or hunting. Once nearing extinction, the Bald Eagle population has seen a significant recovery since 2009.
The legislation recognizing the Bald Eagle was among 50 bills signed into law by President Biden on Christmas Eve, which also included a federal anti-hazing law aimed at addressing violence and fatalities on college campuses.
The Bald Eagle is safeguarded by the National Emblem Act of 1940, which prohibits the sale or hunting of this species.
Once nearly extinct, the Bald Eagle population has seen significant recovery since 2009.
The legislation concerning the Bald Eagle was among 50 bills that President Biden enacted on Christmas Eve, which also included a federal anti-hazing law aimed at addressing violence and fatalities on college campuses.
9 January 2025
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