What Is the National Bird of the United States?

The national bird of the United States is the bald eagle, a symbol of strength, freedom, and independence that has represented American ideals since 1782. When asking what is the national bird, the definitive answer for the U.S. is the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), chosen for its majestic presence and cultural significance. This iconic raptor is not only a powerful emblem in American history but also a fascinating species from a biological and ecological standpoint. Understanding what is the national bird leads naturally to exploring its historical selection, symbolic meaning, physical characteristics, habitat, conservation status, and how to observe it in the wild—topics that blend patriotism, biology, and outdoor recreation.

Historical Background: Why the Bald Eagle Was Chosen

The bald eagle was officially adopted as the national bird of the United States by the Second Continental Congress on June 20, 1782. It was selected primarily for its association with authority and grandeur. Found only in North America at the time, the bald eagle symbolized the uniqueness and sovereignty of the newly formed nation. The bird was incorporated into the Great Seal of the United States, where it appears holding an olive branch in one talon—representing peace—and thirteen arrows in the other, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies prepared for war if necessary.

Despite popular belief, Benjamin Franklin famously expressed reservations about the choice. In a letter to his daughter, he criticized the bald eagle as a bird of “bad moral character,” citing its scavenging habits and tendency to steal food from other birds like ospreys. He preferred the turkey, which he considered more respectable and truly native. However, the bald eagle’s powerful image prevailed, and it became entrenched in American iconography—from currency and military insignia to federal agency logos.

Biological Profile of the Bald Eagle

From a scientific perspective, the bald eagle is a bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. Despite its name, the “bald” eagle is not bald; the term comes from an old English word “balde,” meaning white, referring to the bird’s distinctive white head and tail feathers. These features fully develop when the eagle reaches maturity at around four to five years of age. Juvenile bald eagles are mostly brown with mottled white patches and can be mistaken for golden eagles.

Adult bald eagles typically have a wingspan ranging from 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters) and weigh between 6.5 to 14 pounds (3 to 6.3 kg), with females generally larger than males. They are equipped with sharp talons, a hooked yellow beak, and exceptional eyesight—estimated to be four to eight times sharper than that of humans. This visual acuity allows them to spot fish swimming near the surface of lakes and rivers from great heights.

Bald eagles are primarily found near large bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, marshes, and coastal areas, where their main food source—fish—is abundant. However, they are opportunistic feeders and will also consume waterfowl, small mammals, carrion, and even steal prey from other birds in a behavior known as kleptoparasitism.

Habitat and Distribution Across the United States

Bald eagles are native to North America and are widely distributed across the contiguous United States, Alaska, and parts of Canada and northern Mexico. Their range expanded significantly following successful conservation efforts in the late 20th century. Today, every U.S. state except Hawaii hosts bald eagle populations, especially during winter months when northern birds migrate south.

Key habitats include forested areas adjacent to rivers and lakes, where tall trees provide nesting sites and proximity to water ensures a steady food supply. Nests, called eyries, are among the largest of any bird species, often measuring up to 8 feet wide and weighing over a ton after years of reuse and expansion. Eagles typically return to the same nest each breeding season, adding new materials annually.

State	Bald Eagle Status	Best Viewing Season	Notable Locations
Alaska	Year-round resident	Spring–Fall	Chilkat River, Denali National Park
Florida	Resident & migratory	Winter	Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Lake Apopka
Minnesota	Migratory breeder	Spring & Fall migration	Boundary Waters, Mississippi River
California	Resident & migratory	Winter	Klamath Basin, Shasta Lake
Maine	Year-round resident	Fall–Winter	Penobscot River, Acadia National Park

Conservation Success Story

In the mid-20th century, the bald eagle faced near extinction due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the widespread use of the pesticide DDT, which caused eggshell thinning and reproductive failure. By 1963, only 417 nesting pairs remained in the lower 48 states.

The passage of the Endangered Species Act in 1973, the banning of DDT in 1972, and extensive recovery programs led by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service helped reverse this decline. Nesting pairs rebounded dramatically, reaching over 71,000 in the continental U.S. by 2020. As a result, the bald eagle was removed from the federal endangered species list in 2007, though it remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

This turnaround is considered one of the greatest wildlife conservation success stories in American history. It underscores the importance of science-based policy, public awareness, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

The bald eagle holds deep symbolic value beyond its role as a national emblem. For many Native American tribes, the eagle is sacred, representing spiritual connection, courage, and wisdom. Eagle feathers are used in religious ceremonies and are highly regulated under federal law, requiring permits for possession by enrolled tribal members.

In broader American culture, the bald eagle appears on the one-dollar bill, presidential seal, military uniforms, and numerous government agency insignias, including the FBI and NOAA. Its image evokes patriotism and national pride, particularly during events like Independence Day and presidential inaugurations.

Internationally, the bald eagle is often used as a shorthand symbol for the United States in media and political cartoons. While other countries have their own national birds—such as the robin in the UK or the kiwi in New Zealand—the bald eagle’s global recognition reinforces its status as a powerful national icon.

How to See the National Bird in the Wild

Observing a bald eagle in its natural habitat is a thrilling experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Here are practical tips for spotting the national bird:

• Visit during peak seasons: Winter is often the best time to see bald eagles, especially in northern states where open water attracts migrating birds. Southern populations may be visible year-round.
• Go to known hotspots: Areas with large reservoirs, rivers, or coastal estuaries are ideal. National wildlife refuges such as the Bosque del Apache (New Mexico) or the Skagit River (Washington) host annual eagle festivals.
• Use proper equipment: Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. Look for perched birds atop dead trees or utility poles near water.
• Listen for calls: Though not as vocal as some birds, bald eagles emit high-pitched chirps, squeals, and chatters, especially near nests.
• Respect distance: Federal law prohibits disturbing eagles, especially during nesting season (January–July). Use viewing platforms and follow local guidelines.

Common Misconceptions About the National Bird

Several myths persist about the bald eagle. One is that it is rare or extinct—false, given its recovery. Another is that it is aggressive toward humans, which is extremely uncommon; eagles avoid people and pose no threat unless defending a nest.

Some believe the bald eagle is the national bird of all English-speaking countries, but this is incorrect. Canada’s national bird is unofficially the gray jay, the UK has no official national bird (though the robin is culturally significant), and Australia’s is the emu.

Additionally, while the bald eagle is the national bird of the United States, it is not the state bird of any individual state. Each state selects its own avian symbol—Alaska’s is the willow ptarmigan, Florida’s is the northern mockingbird, and so on.

How Other Countries Choose Their National Birds

National birds are selected based on symbolism, endemism, cultural relevance, or aesthetic appeal. For example:

• New Zealand: The flightless kiwi represents uniqueness and resilience.
• Jamaica: The red-billed streamertail hummingbird is endemic and vibrant.
• India: The Indian peafowl symbolizes grace and religious significance.
• Mexico: The golden eagle appears on the national flag, tied to Aztec legend.

Unlike the U.S., where the decision was made by Congress, some countries choose through public votes or expert panels. These selections reflect national identity and biodiversity priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bald eagle the only national symbol of the United States?

No, the bald eagle is one of several national symbols. Others include the American bison (national mammal), the rose (national flower), and the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner."

Can you own a bald eagle as a pet?

No. It is illegal for private individuals to own bald eagles. They are protected by federal law, and only permitted wildlife rehabilitators or educational institutions may house them.

Do all states have the bald eagle as their state bird?

No. Each state has its own designated state bird. The bald eagle is not the state bird of any U.S. state, despite being the national bird.

Why is the bald eagle called 'bald' if it has white feathers?

The name comes from the Old English word 'balde,' meaning white. Early settlers referred to the bird as 'white-headed,' which evolved into 'bald.'

Where can I see bald eagles in the U.S.?

Top locations include Alaska’s Chilkat Valley, Florida’s Corkscrew Swamp, Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, and Washington’s Skagit River. National wildlife refuges often offer guided tours and viewing platforms.