The Eagle Is Legal!

The bald eagle has been a symbol of strength in the United States for centuries. The mighty raptor is depicted on flags, postage stamps, quarters, and military uniforms. It is even represented on the Great Seal, a stamp-like design created in 1782 that is featured on important government documents.

But for all the bald eagle’s glory, it didn’t have an official designation as the country’s national bird. That changed late last year, when Congress swooped in to pass a bill cementing the bird’s status. President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on December 24.

With its new title, the bald eagle joins the ranks of the bison, which became the national mammal in 2016, and the oak, which was named the national tree in 2004.

—Brooke Ross