After over two centuries of being an unofficial emblem, the Senate has officially named the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. The bill, introduced by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with bipartisan support from Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), passed unanimously in late July 2024.
Both wings of the Senate worked together on this. Ahem.
My bipartisan bill to officially designate the bald eagle as our country’s National Bird passed the Senate! Anders from Lakeville visited the Capitol this week and was excited to hear about how we are a step closer to making the bald eagle our National Bird.🦅 pic.twitter.com/LPjElV5dBi
— Senator Amy Klobuchar (@SenAmyKlobuchar) August 3, 2024
The bald eagle, long synonymous with American values of freedom and strength, has been a prominent symbol since its depiction on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782. However, it was never officially designated as the national bird until now. This move rectifies a historical oversight, as the bald eagle has played a significant role in American iconography, appearing on currency, military uniforms, and public buildings.
The legislation to officially recognize the bald eagle was prompted by findings from eagle enthusiasts like Preston Cook and historian Jack E. Davis. Cook, who has amassed a vast collection of eagle memorabilia, discovered during his research that the bald eagle was never formally ratified as the national bird. This discovery, coupled with advocacy efforts, led to the introduction of the bill.
The bald eagle, a symbol of America’s strength and independence, is reflected on everything from the Great Seal to military insignias. Last month, I introduced legislation rightfully designating the bald eagle as our national bird. pic.twitter.com/apWeQ1din7
— Congressman Brad Finstad (@RepFinstad) July 19, 2024
The bald eagle's journey to official recognition has been fraught with challenges. Once abundant, their population dwindled due to excessive hunting and the detrimental effects of the pesticide DDT, which led to sterility and weakened eggshells. The Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940 and the banning of DDT in 1972 were critical steps in stabilizing and eventually increasing the eagle population. By 2007, the species had recovered sufficiently to be removed from the endangered species list.
Senator Lummis highlighted the bipartisan support for the bill, emphasizing the bald eagle's enduring symbolism of American freedom and patriotism. She expressed her anticipation for the House to pass the bill and for it to be signed into law, officially recognizing the bird’s status without any additional cost to taxpayers.
The bald eagle's symbolic importance extends beyond its national recognition. The bird has historical precedence, having been used as a national symbol dating back to Roman times. The Founding Fathers chose the bald eagle for its unique presence in America, and despite its struggles, the bird has remained a powerful symbol of resilience and freedom.
With the Senate's approval, the House of Representatives is expected to pass the companion legislation introduced by Minnesota Representatives Brad Finstad (R-MN) and Angie Craig (D-MN) among others. This legislative action underscores the bird's integral place in American culture and history.
