Bald Eagle Officially Designated as the U.S. National Bird

In a historic move, more than 280 years, President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed into law legislation officially designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. This long-overdue recognition corrects a longstanding oversight, as the bald eagle has long been regarded as a symbol of American power and strength.

The bald eagle, with its distinctive white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a central part of American iconography for centuries. Since 1782, it has featured on the Great Seal of the United States, which adorns official documents and national symbols. In the same year, Congress designated the bald eagle as the national emblem, but it had never been formally declared the national bird — a distinction now officially granted.

The eagle’s image is prominent across various U.S. symbols, including presidential flags, military insignia, and currency, further cementing its status as a powerful symbol of the nation. As a native bird of North America, the bald eagle’s new title recognizes its longstanding role in American history and identity.