The National Bird of the United States Is the Bald Eagle

The national bird of the United States is the bald eagle, a majestic raptor that was officially adopted as the national symbol in 1782. This iconic bird, known scientifically as *Haliaeetus leucocephalus*, stands out not only for its striking appearance—white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body—but also for its powerful symbolism of freedom, strength, and independence. When people ask what was the national bird, they are often seeking both historical context and biological insight into this emblematic species. The bald eagle’s selection over other contenders like the wild turkey reflects deep-rooted cultural values and early American identity.

Historical Background: How the Bald Eagle Became a National Symbol

The journey of the bald eagle to becoming the national bird began during the founding years of the United States. On June 20, 1782, the Continental Congress approved the design of the Great Seal of the United States, which prominently featured the bald eagle holding an olive branch in one talon and thirteen arrows in the other—symbols of peace and readiness for war, respectively. Although Benjamin Franklin famously expressed preference for the wild turkey in a private letter, calling the eagle “a bird of bad moral character,” the bald eagle had already gained favor among lawmakers for its noble bearing and native presence across North America.

At the time, the bald eagle was seen as uniquely American—found only on the continent and absent from European heraldry. Its image quickly spread across coins, military insignias, government documents, and flags. Over time, it became inseparable from national identity. While no formal legislative act declared it the national bird beyond its inclusion on the seal, consistent use by federal agencies and public institutions cemented its status. In 2024, efforts continue to educate the public about what was the national bird and why it remains relevant today.

Biological Profile: Understanding the Bald Eagle

To fully appreciate what was the national bird, one must understand its biology and ecological role. The bald eagle is a large bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. Adults typically have a wingspan ranging from 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters) and weigh between 6.5 and 14 pounds (3–6.4 kg), with females generally larger than males—a common trait in raptors.

Despite its name, the bald eagle is not actually bald. The term “bald” comes from an old English word, “balde,” meaning white, referring to the bird’s distinctive white-feathered head. It takes about four to five years for juveniles to develop this mature plumage; until then, they are mostly brown with mottled white markings.

Bald eagles are primarily fish-eaters, using their sharp eyesight to spot prey from great heights before swooping down with powerful talons to snatch fish near the water's surface. However, they are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge carrion or steal food from other birds, especially ospreys—a behavior known as kleptoparasitism.

They inhabit a wide range of environments but are most commonly found near large bodies of open water with abundant food supplies and old-growth trees for nesting. Their nests, called eyries, are among the largest of any bird species, sometimes measuring over eight feet across and weighing up to a ton after years of reuse and expansion.

Conservation Success Story: From Endangered to Recovered

One of the most compelling aspects of understanding what was the national bird involves recognizing its dramatic conservation journey. By the mid-20th century, bald eagle populations had plummeted due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the widespread use of the pesticide DDT, which caused eggshell thinning and reproductive failure.

In 1967, the bald eagle was listed under the Endangered Species Preservation Act throughout most of the contiguous United States. Aggressive conservation measures followed, including the banning of DDT in 1972, legal protection under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and reintroduction programs. These efforts led to a remarkable recovery.

In 1995, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reclassified the bald eagle from “endangered” to “threatened.” Finally, in 2007, it was removed entirely from the endangered species list—a testament to effective environmental policy and public awareness. Today, there are more than 300,000 bald eagles in North America, including over 143,000 individuals in the lower 48 states alone.

Year	Event	Status/Outcome
1782	Adoption into Great Seal	Symbolic national representation begins
1940	Bald Eagle Protection Act passed	First major legal protection enacted
1967	Listed as endangered	Protection expanded under federal law
1972	DDT banned in U.S.	Key factor in population rebound
2007	Delisted from Endangered Species Act	Nationwide recovery confirmed

Cultural and Symbolic Significance Across Time

The bald eagle’s symbolic importance extends far beyond its official designation. Native American tribes have long revered eagles as spiritual messengers and symbols of courage, wisdom, and connection to the divine. Feathers are used in sacred ceremonies and are protected by law, requiring special permits for possession.

In modern American culture, the bald eagle appears on everything from currency and military emblems to sports team logos and patriotic displays. It embodies resilience and sovereignty, making it a unifying figure during national events. When asking what was the national bird, many are also exploring how symbolism shapes national identity.

Interestingly, despite its prominence, the bald eagle was never formally declared the national bird through a standalone congressional act. Its status derives from tradition and administrative usage rather than explicit legislation—a nuance often overlooked in discussions about national symbols.

How to See Bald Eagles: Practical Tips for Birdwatchers

For those interested in observing what was the national bird in the wild, timing and location are crucial. Bald eagles can be spotted year-round in many parts of the U.S., but winter months (December to February) offer the best viewing opportunities, especially in northern states where lakes freeze and force eagles to congregate near open water.

Prime locations include:

• Chesapeake Bay, Maryland/Virginia: One of the densest populations in the country.
• Alaska (especially near Anchorage and the Chilkat River): Home to over half of the U.S. population.
• Upper Mississippi River: Wintering grounds attract hundreds of eagles.
• Florida Everglades: Supports a significant resident population.

Recommended gear includes binoculars (8x42 or 10x42), a spotting scope for distant viewing, field guides, and apps like Merlin Bird ID or eBird to log sightings. Early morning hours provide optimal lighting and activity levels. Always maintain a respectful distance—federal law prohibits disturbing eagles, especially during nesting season (January to July).

Common Misconceptions About the National Bird

Several myths persist around the question of what was the national bird. One common misunderstanding is that the golden eagle holds equal or greater symbolic weight. While both species are protected and culturally significant, only the bald eagle appears on the Great Seal and serves as the de facto national symbol.

Another myth is that the bald eagle is aggressive toward humans. In reality, these birds avoid human contact and pose little threat unless defending a nest. Additionally, some believe the bald eagle is exclusive to the U.S., but its range extends across Canada, parts of northern Mexico, and even Alaska’s remote regions.

Finally, while the bald eagle is celebrated nationally, individual states may have their own official birds. For example, New York’s state bird is the eastern bluebird, and California’s is the California quail. This distinction helps clarify that national and state symbols serve different representational roles.

Regional Variations and Global Comparisons

While the U.S. has the bald eagle, other countries have chosen different avian symbols based on cultural, ecological, or historical significance. For instance:

• Mexico: The golden eagle, depicted on the national flag devouring a serpent.
• India: The Indian peafowl, admired for its beauty and religious associations.
• Australia: No official national bird, though the emu is widely recognized.
• South Africa: The blue crane, representing grace and cultural heritage.

These choices reflect diverse values—from martial strength to spiritual elegance. Understanding what was the national bird in various nations offers insight into how societies project ideals through nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the national bird of the United States?

The national bird of the United States is the bald eagle, adopted symbolically in 1782 via the Great Seal.

Was the turkey ever considered the national bird?

No, the wild turkey was never officially considered. Benjamin Franklin mentioned his personal preference for the turkey in a letter, but no formal proposal existed.

Is the bald eagle still protected by law?

Yes, it is protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, even though it is no longer endangered.

Can I keep a bald eagle feather if I find one?

No, it is illegal for the general public to possess bald eagle feathers without a federal permit. Only enrolled members of federally recognized tribes may apply for such permits for religious purposes.

Where can I see bald eagles in the wild?

Top viewing areas include Alaska, the Chesapeake Bay, the Upper Mississippi River, and parts of Florida. Winter increases visibility due to migration patterns.