Bald Eagle Officially Declared US National Bird 

The bald eagle, a white-headed and yellow-beaked bird of prey, officially became the national bird of the US on Christmas Eve after President Joe Biden signed a law. Though it’s been a national emblem on the Great Seal since 1782, it wasn’t officially designated until Congress passed the bill last week.

While some, like Benjamin Franklin, objected to the eagle’s choice, others, like many Americans, saw it as a symbol of strength, courage, freedom, and immortality. Unlike other eagles, the bald eagle is indigenous to North America.

Minnesota lawmakers spearheaded the legislation, which was signed into law by Biden alongside other measures like a federal anti-hazing law. The bald eagle’s population has increased since 2009, though it was once on the brink of extinction.