The bald eagle was formally designated as the national bird of the United States after 250 years

President Joe Biden signed legislation on Christmas Eve designating the white-headed and yellow-beaked raptor as the official national bird of the United States.

Since its appearance on the US Great Seal, which is used on US papers, in 1782, the bird has served as a national emblem for the United States for many years.

But only last week, when Congress passed the law and sent it to Biden’s desk for his signature, was it formally named the national bird.

In a statement, Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, said, “We labeled the bald eagle the national eagle for nearly 250 years when it wasn’t.” “But no bird is more deserving now that the title is official.”

Regarding the bald eagle’s national status, opinions have not always been in agreement.

Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers, argued that the animal was a “bird of poor moral character” and objected to its selection as the national symbol.

However, not every member of Congress agreed with Franklin.

According to the US Department of Veteran Affairs, bald eagles, like other eagles around the world, have long been regarded by many as representations of bravery, strength, independence, and immortality. Furthermore, the bald eagle was unique to North America, unlike other eagles.

Lawmakers in Minnesota were the driving force behind the legislation that designated the bald eagle as the national bird. Senator Amy Klobuchar said the state has one of the largest bald eagle populations in the country.

The National Emblem Act of 1940, which forbids the sale or hunting of the bald eagle, further protects the species.

The birds were in danger of going extinct, but since 2009, their numbers have significantly grown.

To combat violence and fatalities on college campuses, Biden signed 50 pieces of legislation into law on Christmas Eve, including the bald eagle bill.