What Is the US National Bird? The American Bald Eagle

The United States national bird is the American bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), a majestic raptor that has served as the nation's symbol since 1782. Often searched as 'what is the official bird of the United States' or 'which bird represents America,' the bald eagle stands as an enduring emblem of liberty, strength, and resilience. This powerful bird of prey was selected not for its rarity, but for its bold presence and deep cultural resonance with the ideals of the newly formed republic. Today, it remains a focal point for wildlife conservation efforts and a favorite among birdwatchers across North America.

Historical Selection of the National Bird

The bald eagle was officially adopted as the national bird of the United States on June 20, 1782, when Congress approved the Great Seal of the United States. The design features a bald eagle holding an olive branch in one talon—symbolizing peace—and thirteen arrows in the other, representing the original thirteen colonies and readiness for war if necessary. The eagle faces the olive branch, emphasizing a preference for peace.

While Benjamin Franklin famously expressed disappointment with the choice—preferring the wild turkey—he criticized the eagle’s moral character, calling it a bird of “bad moral principle” due to its scavenging habits. However, the Founding Fathers saw the eagle’s soaring flight and commanding presence as reflective of the nation’s aspirations. Its image quickly spread across currency, military insignia, government documents, and public buildings, solidifying its status in American identity.

Biological Profile of the Bald Eagle

The bald eagle is a large bird of prey native exclusively to North America. Despite its name, it is not actually bald; the term comes from an older meaning of “white-headed.” Adults have a distinctive white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body and wingspan that can reach up to 7.5 feet (2.3 meters). Females are typically larger than males, weighing between 10 to 14 pounds (4.5–6.3 kg), while males average 7 to 10 pounds (3.2–4.5 kg).

Bald eagles are long-lived, often surviving over 20 years in the wild and up to 30 years in captivity. They mate for life and return to the same nesting site year after year, adding materials to create some of the largest nests in the avian world—sometimes exceeding 13 feet deep and weighing over a ton.

These birds are primarily found near large bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, where they feed mainly on fish. Using their exceptional eyesight—estimated to be four to eight times sharper than human vision—they spot prey from great distances. They are also opportunistic feeders, known to scavenge carrion or steal food from other birds, particularly ospreys.

Habitat and Geographic Range

Bald eagles are distributed throughout North America, from Alaska and Canada down through most of the contiguous United States and into parts of northern Mexico. Their range has expanded significantly since the late 20th century due to conservation efforts.

They prefer habitats with old-growth trees for nesting and open water for hunting. Prime locations include:

• Alaska’s coastal rainforests
• The Pacific Northwest
• The Great Lakes region
• Florida’s wetlands
• Rivers like the Mississippi and Hudson

In winter, northern populations migrate southward, increasing sightings in states like Pennsylvania, Maryland, and along the Atlantic coast. Some eagles remain year-round in milder climates where water doesn’t freeze.

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.

Thanks to the banning of DDT in 1972, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and extensive reintroduction programs, bald eagle numbers rebounded dramatically. In 2007, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the species from the endangered list. As of 2020, there were more than 300,000 individual bald eagles in the United States, including over 71,000 breeding pairs.

This recovery is considered one of the greatest success stories in American conservation history and serves as a model for protecting other threatened species.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Beyond its role as a national emblem, the bald eagle holds deep spiritual and cultural meaning for many Native American tribes. For centuries, eagle feathers have been used in ceremonies, regalia, and rites of passage, symbolizing courage, wisdom, and connection to the divine. Federal law now protects these traditions through the National Eagle Repository, which provides molted or naturally deceased eagle parts to enrolled tribal members for religious purposes.

In broader American culture, the bald eagle appears on everything from postage stamps to sports team logos (e.g., Philadelphia Eagles). It is frequently invoked during patriotic events such as Independence Day, presidential inaugurations, and military funerals. Its image reinforces national unity and pride, though debates occasionally arise about whether symbols should evolve with changing societal values.

How to See Bald Eagles in the Wild

Observing a bald eagle in flight is a thrilling experience for any birder or nature enthusiast. Here are practical tips for spotting them:

1. Visit During Winter Months: Eagles congregate near unfrozen rivers and reservoirs where fish are accessible. Prime viewing times are December through February.
2. Go at Dawn or Dusk: Eagles are most active during early morning and late afternoon when hunting.
3. Use Binoculars or Spotting Scopes: Look for them perched high in dead trees or utility poles near water.
4. Check Local Hotspots: Popular sites include the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve in Alaska, Conowingo Dam in Maryland, and the Skagit River in Washington.
5. Join Guided Tours: Many wildlife refuges and parks offer eagle-watching boat tours or ranger-led walks.

Always maintain a respectful distance—federal law prohibits disturbing eagles or their nests under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

Common Misconceptions About the Bald Eagle

Despite its fame, several myths persist about the national bird:

• Myth: The bald eagle is rare everywhere.
  Fact: While once endangered, it is now common in many regions thanks to conservation.
• Myth: Bald eagles are aggressive predators that attack humans.
  Fact: They avoid people and pose no threat unless defending a nest nearby.
• Myth: All white-headed eagles are adults.
  Fact: Juveniles take 4–5 years to develop full adult plumage; younger birds are mottled brown and white.
• Myth: The bald eagle is related to the golden eagle.
  Fact: While both are large raptors, they belong to different genera and have distinct behaviors and habitats.

Differences Between Bald and Golden Eagles

Both species are protected and hold symbolic importance, but key differences help distinguish them:

Feature	Bald Eagle	Golden Eagle
Head Color (Adult)	White	Dark with golden nape
Habitat Preference	Near water (lakes, coasts)	Open country, mountains
Diet	Fish, carrion, waterfowl	Mammals (rabbits, rodents)
Wingspan	6–7.5 ft (1.8–2.3 m)	6–7.25 ft (1.8–2.2 m)
Nesting Location	Tall trees near water	Cliffs, remote areas

Legal Protections and Ethical Viewing

The bald eagle is protected under multiple federal laws, including:

• Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (1940): Prohibits harming, possessing, or selling eagles or their parts without a permit.
• Migratory Bird Treaty Act: Covers all native bird species, reinforcing protections.
• Endangered Species Act: Though delisted, continued monitoring ensures population stability.

If you find a dead eagle or suspect illegal activity, report it to your state wildlife agency or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Never attempt to collect feathers or bones—even as souvenirs—as this violates federal law.

Educational and Citizen Science Opportunities

Interested individuals can contribute to bald eagle conservation through citizen science projects:

• eBird (Cornell Lab of Ornithology): Submit sightings to help track distribution and migration patterns.
• National Eagle Observatory: Participate in live-streamed nest cams and educational webinars.
• Local Audubon Chapters: Join guided bird walks and advocacy campaigns.

Schools and nature centers often host eagle-themed programs during American Eagle Week (the first week of March), promoting awareness and stewardship.

Conclusion: A Living Symbol of Resilience

The bald eagle is more than just the national bird of the United States—it is a testament to what can be achieved through dedicated conservation and public engagement. From its selection in 1782 to its dramatic recovery in the 21st century, the species embodies the resilience and enduring spirit of the nation it represents. Whether seen soaring above a mountain ridge or perched proudly on a flagpole, the bald eagle continues to inspire awe and reverence across generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was the bald eagle chosen as the national bird?
A: It was selected in 1782 for its association with strength, freedom, and independence—qualities admired by the Founding Fathers.

Q: Can you own a bald eagle feather?
A: Only enrolled members of federally recognized Native American tribes may legally possess eagle feathers for religious purposes through the National Eagle Repository.

Q: Where can I see bald eagles in the wild?
A: Excellent places include Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Florida, and major river systems like the Mississippi and Hudson. Winter months offer the best viewing opportunities.

Q: Are bald eagles dangerous to humans?
A: No, they avoid human contact. However, they may become defensive near their nests during breeding season—always observe from a safe distance.

Q: How do I tell a juvenile bald eagle from an adult?
A: Juveniles lack the white head and tail; instead, they have mottled brown-and-white plumage and take 4–5 years to mature fully.