Imagine a majestic bird, soaring high above the land of the free and the home of the brave. Its piercing eyes survey the vast expanse below, a symbol of strength, freedom, and resilience.
This is the bald eagle, an icon that has long been associated with the United States. But did you know that despite its prominence, the bald eagle has never been officially declared as America’s national bird?
The National Eagle Center is on a mission to change that.
The Bald Eagle’s Symbolic Significance
The bald eagle has been a symbol of the United States since the late 18th century. Its image graces the Great Seal of the United States, as well as countless government buildings, documents, and currency. The eagle’s fierce beauty and proud independence aptly symbolize the strength and freedom of America.
The Founding Fathers chose the bald eagle as the emblem of the nation for its unique qualities. They are strong, independent survivors, and their majestic presence embodies the spirit of America.
The Push for Official Recognition
Despite its long-standing association with the United States, the bald eagle has never been officially named as the national bird. The National Eagle Center is working to secure congressional recognition for this iconic species.(ref)
The choice of a national bird lies in the hands of Congress, and it’s not an easy decision. Votes could potentially be influenced by legislators’ preferred avian mascots, such as orioles, cardinals, or jays. However, none can match the bald eagle’s symbolic significance for the country and its culture.
The legislative effort is being led by a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators and Representatives, including Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Brad Finstad (R-MN), and Angie Craig (D-MN). Bills such as H.R. 8800 and S. 4610 have been introduced in the 118th Congress, emphasizing the urgency to finalize this designation.
The Bald Eagle’s Comeback Story
The bald eagle’s journey has not been without challenges. In the mid-20th century, the species was on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and the use of DDT pesticides. Through conservation efforts and the banning of DDT, the bald eagle population has made a remarkable recovery.
In 1963, when the species was at its lowest ebb, there were only an estimated 417 breeding pairs of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. By 1997, this number had increased to more than 5,000.(ref) As of 2020, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimated that the bald eagle population in the lower 48 states totaled 316,700 individuals, of which 71,467 were breeding pairs. (ref)
The bald eagle’s comeback is a testament to the resilience and determination of both the species and the nation it represents. By officially recognizing the bald eagle as America’s national bird, we celebrate its symbolic importance and the success of conservation efforts that have brought it back from the brink.
A Symbol of Unity & Pride
In a time of political division and uncertainty, the bald eagle serves as a unifying symbol for all Americans. Its selection as the national bird would serve as a powerful reminder of our shared history, values, and the importance of conservation.
As we look to the future, let us rally behind the National Eagle Center’s efforts to secure official recognition for the bald eagle. By embracing this majestic bird as our national symbol, we celebrate the strength, freedom, and resilience that define the American spirit.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.