If you're shocked this hasn't already happened, you won't be the first. But a bipartisan bill that would recognize the bald eagle as the national bird is heading to President Biden's desk. That's right, the bald eagle is not (yet) the national bird.
The bald eagle has been a symbol of the U.S. for more than 200 years. It was put on the Great Seal back in 1782.
Once, it was on the brink of extinction.
"By the 1960s, there were only a few hundred bald eagles left across the country. Now, they are widely found again."
That quote, from a report on CBS News 17 years ago, tells the story of the bald eagle's comeback.
Wildlife officials say it has been remarkable. The National Eagle Center, based in Wabasha Minnesota, played a key role in pushing for the bill. All of Minnesota's congressional delegation cosponsored the bill which was spearheaded by Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN) in the House with support from Angie Craig (D-MN). U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) helped push the effort through the Senate.
“More than two hundred and forty years ago, the Founding Fathers identified the bald eagle as a symbol of the strength and independence promised in our new nation. Since then, we have revered this majestic creature as the unquestionable icon of the United States,” said Rep. Finstad. “Today, we rightfully recognize the bald eagle as our official national bird – bestowing an honor that is long overdue. In the First District, we are the proud home of the National Eagle Center, our country’s only educational center dedicated to preserving the bald eagle and its historical and cultural significance. It has been an honor to work alongside them to make this historic moment a reality.”
Preston Cook is Co-Chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, and author of American Eagle – A Visual History of Our National Emblem. His tireless efforts working with lawmakers helped push the initiative to the president's desk.
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“This is an exciting day. The Bald Eagle has symbolized American ideals since its placement on the Great Seal in 1782,” said Cook. “With this legislation, we honor its historic role and solidify its place as our national bird and an emblem of our national identity.”
The Senate passed the legislation in July. The Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes, representing 36 Indigenous nations and four tribal organizations, also supported the effort.
“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,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “With the passage of our legislation, the bald eagle will now officially be recognized as our nation's national bird.”
The U.S. code already designates the oak tree as the national tree of the United States and the rose as the national flower. And Congress voted in 2016 to deem the bison the national mammal.
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