Extensive media coverage in 2024 brought attention to an unexpected fact: While the bald eagle has long been a symbol of the nation — appearing on official seals, passports, and currency — it had never been officially designated as the national bird.
That changed on Tuesday, December 24, when President Joe Biden signed a bill into law, naming the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. Furthermore, Minnesota’s Preston Cook and the National Eagle Center (NEC) played a key role in advocating for lawmakers to correct what was viewed as a simple oversight.
The cause garnered national attention, and it’s no surprise that the initiative began in Minnesota, home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the country. The designation underscores the critical need for conservation and the protection of these magnificent creatures. LHB is proud to have partnered with the NEC since designing its interpretive center, which opened in 2007.
Click here to see how LHB’s partnership with the NEC began, then click here to learn about its exciting 2023 expansion. Even more exciting developments are on the horizon in 2025 — stay tuned! ∎
Here are a few media stories highlighting the National Eagle Center and the eagle’s journey to national bird status!
- Audubon Magazine I Winter 2024
- FOX 9 TV I Dec. 25, 2024
- NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt I Dec. 16, 2024
- The Minnesota Star Tribune I Dec. 16, 2024 (subscription may be needed to access)
