No Official Bird Before the Bald Eagle

There was no official national bird of the United States before the bald eagle, which was adopted as the national symbol in 1782. Despite popular myths and cultural references to other birds such as the turkey, there was no formally recognized predecessor to the bald eagle as the national bird. This fact often leads to confusion, especially when considering historical debates or symbolic interpretations surrounding early American identity. The question of what was the national bird before the bald eagle is frequently tied to misconceptions about Benjamin Franklin’s preference for the wild turkey, a story that has grown in popularity but does not reflect any official designation.

Historical Context: The Selection of the Bald Eagle

The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was chosen as the national emblem of the United States on June 20, 1782, when the Continental Congress approved the design of the Great Seal of the United States. The selection was made by a committee that included John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin—though none of them were ultimately responsible for the final choice. The actual design was developed over several iterations by multiple committees, with the final version credited largely to Charles Thomson, Secretary of the Continental Congress.

The bald eagle was selected for its majestic appearance, strength, and long life. At the time, it was believed (incorrectly) that the species was unique to North America, which added to its appeal as a symbol of American independence and sovereignty. The bird was depicted clutching an olive branch in one talon—symbolizing peace—and thirteen arrows in the other, representing the original thirteen colonies prepared for war if necessary.

The Myth of the Turkey as National Bird

One of the most enduring myths related to what was the national bird before the bald eagle involves Benjamin Franklin's supposed advocacy for the wild turkey. In a 1784 letter to his daughter, Sarah Bache, Franklin expressed disappointment with the choice of the bald eagle, calling it a bird of “bad moral character” due to its scavenging habits and tendency to steal food from other birds. He contrasted this with the turkey, which he described as “a much more respectable bird” and “a true original native of America.”

However, Franklin never formally proposed the turkey as a replacement or suggested it as a national symbol in any official capacity. His comments were made in private correspondence and were likely meant to be humorous or satirical rather than a serious policy recommendation. Nevertheless, the idea that the turkey was ever under official consideration as the national bird persists in popular culture, contributing to widespread misunderstanding about U.S. symbolism history.

Biological Profile of the Bald Eagle

To understand why the bald eagle became such a powerful national symbol, it helps to examine its biological traits. The bald eagle is a large bird of prey native to North America, easily recognized by its white head and tail feathers, dark brown body, and bright yellow beak and eyes. Adults typically reach lengths of 28–40 inches with wingspans ranging from 5.9 to 7.5 feet, making them one of the largest raptors on the continent.

These birds are primarily fish-eaters, using their exceptional eyesight—estimated to be four to eight times sharper than human vision—to spot prey from great heights. They build massive nests, called eyries, in tall trees or on cliffs, often returning to and enlarging the same nest year after year. Some nests have been found weighing over a ton and measuring nearly 10 feet across.

Bald eagles mate for life and exhibit strong territorial behavior during breeding season. Their call—a series of high-pitched chatters and squeals—is less imposing than their appearance might suggest, often surprising those who expect a deep, thunderous cry.

Conservation History and Recovery

Despite its revered status, the bald eagle faced near extinction in the 20th century. By the 1960s, pesticide use—particularly DDT—had caused severe thinning of eggshells, leading to reproductive failure across much of the population. Habitat destruction and illegal hunting further reduced numbers. In 1963, only 417 known nesting pairs remained in the lower 48 states.

The passage of the Endangered Species Act in 1973 and the banning of DDT in 1972 marked turning points in the species’ recovery. Through extensive conservation programs, habitat protection, and reintroduction efforts, bald eagle populations rebounded dramatically. In 2007, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the bald eagle from the endangered species list, declaring it fully recovered. Today, there are over 300,000 individual bald eagles in the United States, including more than 100,000 in Alaska alone.

Year	Estimated Nesting Pairs (Lower 48)	Status
1782	Unknown (likely tens of thousands)	Adopted as national symbol
1963	417	Endangered
1995	4,450	Downlisted to Threatened
2007	9,789+	Removed from Endangered List
2020	71,400+ active nests	Full recovery documented

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

The bald eagle appears on numerous official emblems beyond the Great Seal, including the presidential seal, military insignia, currency, and federal agency logos. It symbolizes freedom, strength, and resilience—values central to American national identity. Indigenous cultures across North America also hold the eagle in high regard, often viewing it as a sacred messenger between humans and the divine.

In Native American traditions, eagle feathers are awarded for acts of bravery and leadership and are used in religious ceremonies. The spiritual significance of eagles predates European colonization by centuries, adding deeper layers to the bird’s symbolic role in modern America.

Practical Tips for Observing Bald Eagles

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts interested in seeing bald eagles in the wild, timing and location are key. Here are practical tips to increase your chances:

• Best Time to See Them: Winter months (December to February) offer optimal viewing opportunities, especially along rivers and lakes where open water attracts fish. Eagles congregate in areas with reliable food sources during cold weather.
• Top Viewing Locations: Prime spots include the Chilkat River in Alaska, the Mississippi River flyway, the Klamath Basin in Oregon/California, and the Upper Delaware River region.
• Equipment Needed: Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. A field guide or birding app can help confirm identification based on plumage patterns and flight style.
• Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance—ideally at least 330 feet (100 meters)—to avoid disturbing nesting or feeding birds. Disturbing eagles, especially near nests, is a violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
• Join Guided Tours: Many wildlife refuges and parks offer eagle-watching tours led by naturalists. These provide educational context and improve sighting success.

Common Misconceptions About the National Bird

Beyond the myth of the turkey being the national bird before the bald eagle, several other misconceptions persist:

• Misconception: The bald eagle is only found in the U.S.
  Reality: While iconic in America, bald eagles range throughout Canada, parts of northern Mexico, and even as far south as the Sonoran Desert during migration.
• Misconception: The bald eagle represents aggression.
  Reality: Though powerful predators, they mostly feed on fish and carrion. Their presence on the Great Seal emphasizes vigilance and readiness, not hostility.
• Misconception: All white-headed eagles are adult bald eagles.
  Reality: Juvenile bald eagles lack the distinctive white head and tail, which develop gradually over four to five years. Young birds are often mistaken for golden eagles.

How to Verify Official Symbols and Historical Facts

When researching topics like what was the national bird before the bald eagle, it's important to consult authoritative sources. Reliable references include:

• The U.S. National Archives (archives.gov) – for documents on the Great Seal and founding era decisions.
• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (fws.gov) – for biological data and conservation status.
• The Library of Congress (loc.gov) – for primary source materials, including Franklin’s letters.
• Peer-reviewed ornithological journals – for scientific accuracy on bird behavior and ecology.

Be cautious of anecdotal websites or viral social media posts that repeat unverified claims, such as “the turkey was almost the national bird.” Always trace assertions back to original documents or expert analyses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the turkey ever the national bird of the United States?

No, the wild turkey was never officially considered or designated as the national bird. Benjamin Franklin's praise of the turkey was part of a personal letter and not a formal proposal.

When did the bald eagle become the national bird?

The bald eagle was adopted as the national symbol on June 20, 1782, when Congress approved the design of the Great Seal of the United States.

Are there any other birds that serve as national symbols in the U.S.?

No bird holds official national status besides the bald eagle. However, each state has its own designated state bird, such as the Northern Cardinal or American Robin.

Why is it called a 'bald' eagle if it has a white head?

The term 'bald' comes from an old English word 'balde,' meaning white or shining. So 'bald eagle' originally meant 'white-headed eagle.'

Can I see bald eagles year-round in the U.S.?

Yes, though sightings are most common in winter. Alaska has resident populations year-round, while southern states may host migratory individuals during colder months.