Bald Eagle Officially Designated as the National Bird of the United States
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | US Declare Bald Eagle As National Bird After 250 Years |
| Official Designation | December 24, 2024 (signed into law by President Joe Biden) |
| National Bird | Bald Eagle |
| Symbolic Importance | Represents strength, courage, freedom, immortality; indigenous to North America |
| Historical Context | - Appeared on the Great Seal of the US since 1782- Benjamin Franklin opposed its use as a symbol |
| Conservation | Protected under the National Emblem Act of 1940; population recovery since near extinction |
| Legislation Proponents | Spearheaded by Minnesota lawmakers; state has a significant bald eagle population |