Bald Eagle Takes Its Official Spot as National Bird!
In a heartwarming move, President Joe Biden has officially crowned the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States! This significant honor was bestowed upon the iconic bird just in time for Christmas, as Biden signed the celebratory law on Christmas Eve. Talk about a festive gift to our feathered friends!
Celebrating a Longtime Symbol
The bald eagle has long been a symbol of strength and courage, proudly gracing the Great Seal of the US since 1782. Despite its emblematic status over many years, the bird was never officially recognized as the national bird until Congress decided to pass the bill just last week. Following that important step, it landed on Biden’s desk, where it received his signature and a whole lot of love.
“For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn’t,” noted Jack Davis, a co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center. “But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving.” It’s hard not to agree with him!
A Bit of History
However, this happy occasion hasn’t always been a point of agreement. Did you know that one of the Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, was not a fan of the bald eagle? He apparently thought it had a “bird of bad moral character” vibe, choosing instead to champion the humble turkey. But his opinions were no match for the mighty eagle’s global reputation.
The bald eagle isn’t just any bird; it’s the only eagle native to North America! For generations, people have seen it as a representation of freedom, immortality, and unyielding courage. According to the US Department of Veteran Affairs, the bald eagle has been intertwined with the American spirit for ages.
Legislative Prowess
The recent legislation to officially designate the bald eagle as the national bird was driven forward by lawmakers in Minnesota. This state boasts one of the largest populations of these majestic birds, prompting Senator Amy Klobuchar to become a key advocate in making this dream a reality.
But the media should also note that the bald eagle is not just a pretty face; it has been protected under the National Emblem Act of 1940. This means it is illegal to sell or hunt them. With recovery efforts gaining momentum, the bald eagle population has been booming since it was once on the brink of extinction. Today, they are thriving and happily soaring high.
More Than Just a Bird
Interestingly, the bald eagle bill is just one of the many pieces of legislation that Biden signed on Christmas Eve. Among these bills was a federal anti-hazing law aimed at tackling violence and deaths on college campuses. And as we gear up for the next presidential term, it looks like Biden is busy dashing through the snow of governance!
The president hasn’t just been focusing on legislation; he also commuted the sentences of a staggering 37 of 40 death row inmates. He’s making it clear that he believes the death penalty at the federal level “must stop.”
Looking to the Future
As we celebrate this charming new status for the bald eagle, it serves as a reminder of the natural beauty and strength that these birds embody. They’ve earned their place as the national bird, bringing us all a little closer to nature and our roots as a nation. With the bald eagle officially taking flight as the national bird, we can only imagine what other wonderful things are ahead in this new chapter for our nation!
So here’s to the bald eagle, the majestic bird that, unofficially, has always had our hearts — and now, it’s got the title to match! 🦅💖
