The Bald Eagle Soars as America’s Official National Bird
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Symbol Takes Flight
The bill was championed by Minnesota lawmakers, a state boasting one of the largest bald eagle populations in the nation. The bald eagle is also protected under the National Emblem Act of 1940, making it illegal to sell or harm these majestic creatures. After facing near extinction, the bald eagle population has made a remarkable recovery since 2009. The legislation recognizing the bald eagle as the national bird was one of 50 bills signed by President Biden on Christmas Eve. This included a federal anti-hazing law aimed at tackling violence and deaths on university campuses.A New Feather in America’s Cap: The Bald Eagle Takes Flight as Official National Bird
Joining us today is Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center. Welcome, Jack.
Archyde: Jack, you expressed your excitement
about the bald eagle finally being officially recognized as the national bird after years of being recognized unofficially. Can you tell our readers what this means and why it’s so important?
Jack Davis: It’s been a long time coming! For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird, even though it wasn’t official. This legislation solidifies that status and acknowledges the bird’s enduring place in American identity. It’s a powerful symbol of strength, courage, freedom, and the spirit of our nation. [1]
Archyde:
Captivating that there was some initial resistance too the bald eagle becoming the national bird.What were some of the arguments against it?
Jack Davis: It wasn’t all smooth sailing! Famously, Benjamin Franklin himself wasn’t a big fan. He felt the bald eagle was a ”bird of bad moral character” and preferred the wild turkey. [1] However, I think most americans ultimately connect with the bald eagle’s majesty and what it represents.
Archyde:
Given the bald eagle’s close connection to American identity and its history,what do you think this official recognition will mean for the bird’s future,and how might it impact conservation efforts?
Jack Davis: I hope it will inspire a renewed commitment to protecting bald eagles and their habitats.After facing near extinction, their population has made a remarkable comeback. This is a testament to conservation efforts, and I believe this official designation will contribute to continued support for these magnificent creatures.
Archyde: **
Do you believe there are othre undervalued symbols in American culture that could benefit from similar recognition? What symbols resonate with you, personally, and why?
Jack Davis:
That’s a great question. It encourages us all to think about the symbols that truly reflect our values and aspirations. It’s also crucial to recognize the diversity of symbols that represent different communities within our nation. Readers, what symbols do you think deserve greater recognition, and why?
## Soaring to New Heights: An Interview about America’s National Bird
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**Host:** Welcome back to Archyde Insight. Today we’re diving into a momentous occasion for birdwatchers and patriots alike: The official designation of the Bald Eagle as America’s national bird. Joining us to discuss this momentous occasion is Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle center. Welcome, Jack.
**Jack Davis:** Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for eagle enthusiasts everywhere.
**Host:** Indeed! It truly seems almost strange that the Bald Eagle wasn’t officially recognized as the national bird until now, considering its long-standing presence on the Great Seal.Can you shed some light on that?
**Jack Davis:** absolutely. While the Bald Eagle has been informally considered our national bird since the nation’s founding, appearing on the Great Seal since 1782, there was never a formal act of congress making it official. this new legislation rectifies that historical oversight.
**Host:** Engaging. And what prompted this push for official recognition now?
**Jack Davis:** A group of dedicated individuals, myself included, at the National Bird Initiative saw an prospect to not only solidify the Bald Eagle’s status but also highlight its conservation success story. This magnificent bird, once on the brink of extinction, has made a remarkable comeback thanks to conservation efforts.
**Host:** That’s truly inspiring. But the Bald Eagle’s journey to national bird status wasn’t without its hiccups. I understand Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously opposed its selection.
**Jack Davis:** [chuckles] yes, Franklin famously preferred the Wild Turkey, deeming the Bald Eagle a “bird of bad moral character” due to its scavenging habits. It goes to show that even historical figures can have differing opinions!
**Host:** But ultimately, the Bald Eagle’s symbolism of strength, freedom, and immortality won over the hearts and minds of Americans.
**Jack Davis:** Precisely! The Bald Eagle embodies the very spirit of this nation.
**host:** Looking forward, what does this new official designation mean for the Bald Eagle and its conservation?
**Jack Davis:** We hope it will raise awareness about the ongoing need to protect this magnificent species and its habitat. The Bald Eagle’s recovery is a testament to what can be achieved through dedication and collaborative conservation efforts.
**Host:** Thank you, Jack, for sharing your insights on this momentous occasion.
**Jack Davis:** The pleasure was all mine. Remember, let’s continue to soar in our efforts to protect this symbol of our nation.
**[Outro Music]**
