Senate passes bill restoring bald eagle’s official status
The United States Senate has officially named the bald eagle as America’s national bird, over 200 years after it first became a symbol of the nation. The bill, proposed by Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar, was approved unanimously.
Historical significance and legislative action
“For more than 240 years, the bald eagle has been synonymous with American values, yet it is still not officially our national bird,” stated Senator Cynthia Lummis in a press release. “Today’s bipartisan passage brings us one step closer to solidifying the eagle’s place as an enduring symbol of our freedom, and I look forward to seeing this legislation pass the House and signed into law soon.”
The bald eagle has been used as a national symbol since the Roman era, appearing on the ‘SPQR’ governmental seal of the ancient empire. In the United States, it was chosen by the Founding Fathers due to its native presence in the region. While primarily living and breeding in the United States, some bald eagles migrate to Canada and Mexico, according to the National Park Services.
From the Great Seal to legal recognition
Although never officially recognized as the national bird, the bald eagle’s status was cemented in 1782, when it was added to the Great Seal of the United States. Initially, a white eagle was intended for the seal, but after several committees failed to agree, Secretary of Congress Charles Thomson combined their work, and the Continental Congress adopted the Great Seal in June 1782. The idea of official recognition was eventually shelved amid the aftermath of the American Revolution.
Conservation and legal protection
During the 20th century, the bald eagle faced significant threats, leading to the Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940, which prohibited their shooting or sale. The use of the pesticide DDT after World War II further endangered the species, as it poisoned their primary food source, fish, leading to sterility and weakened eggshells.
Listed as endangered in 1978, the bald eagle’s population began to recover due to conservation efforts and adherence to protective legislation. The bird was removed from the endangered list in 2007 and has since thrived.
The Senate’s recent bill restores the bald eagle’s official status, reaffirming its place as a symbol of American freedom and resilience. This legislative action marks a significant milestone in recognizing the bird’s historical and cultural importance to the United States.