The White House announced on Christmas Eve that President Joe Biden has signed a bill officially designating the bald eagle as the United States’ national bird.
The legislation, signed on Monday following unanimous passage by Congress, amends Title 36 of the United States Code to formally recognize the bald eagle as one of the nation’s official symbols.
While the bald eagle has been featured on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 and was designated as the national emblem by Congress that same year, it was never legally given the title of “national bird.”
In addition to its prominent place on the Great Seal, the bald eagle appears on official documents, military insignia, the presidential flag, and U.S. currency. Despite its historical and symbolic significance, earlier government documents, including some published by the Department of Veterans Affairs, had incorrectly noted its status.
The White House expressed gratitude to key lawmakers who championed the bill. “Thank you to Senators Klobuchar, Lummis, Mullin, and Smith, and Representatives Finstad, Craig, and Emmer for their leadership,” the White House said in a statement on Tuesday.
The bald eagle, once an endangered species, has become an enduring emblem of American strength, freedom, and resilience, making its official designation as the national bird a long-awaited affirmation.
