President Joe Biden has officially designated the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States, signing the bipartisan legislation into law on December 24, 2024.

The bald eagle has symbolized American ideals since its placement on the Great Seal in 1782. Despite its longstanding association with the nation’s identity, it had never been formally recognized as the national bird until now. The legislation, which passed unanimously in both the Senate and the House, amends Title 36 of the United States Code to officially appoint the bald eagle as a national symbol.

Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), a key sponsor of the bill, stated, “The bald eagle is a symbol of our country’s freedom and strength. In Minnesota, we know a thing or two about eagles: we are home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the country as well as the National Eagle Center in Wabasha.”

The National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota, played a significant role in advocating for this legislation. Preston Cook, Co-Chair of the National Bird Initiative for the Center, expressed, “With this legislation, we honor the bald eagle’s historic role and solidify its place as our national bird and an emblem of our national identity.”

The bald eagle’s journey from near extinction to a thriving population is a testament to successful conservation efforts. Once endangered due to habitat loss and pesticide use, the species has rebounded following protective measures and was removed from the endangered species list in 2007.

This formal recognition not only cements the bald eagle’s status as a national symbol but also underscores the nation’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. The bird’s image, already prevalent on official documents, military insignia, and currency, now holds its rightful place as the official national bird of the United States.