WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02) have introduced legislation that would designate the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States.

Native to North America, the bald eagle has been featured on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782, yet no species is currently recognized as the official national bird.

“Since the founding of our nation, the bald eagle has existed as a symbol of our country’s independence, strength, and freedom. Prominently displayed on our official currency, military uniforms, and our government buildings, the bald eagle stands as the undisputed representative of the United States of America,” said Rep. Finstad. “I am proud to work alongside the National Eagle Center in Wabasha to introduce this legislation which will officially classify the bald eagle as the national bird – its proper place of honor as an integral part of our national identity.”

“While most people assume the Bald Eagle is our nation’s official bird, the fact is our country doesn’t have an official bird,” said Preston Cook, Co-Chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center.  “The bison is the national mammal, the rose is the national flower, and the oak is the national tree. It’s time the Bald Eagle, long revered as our national symbol, finds its rightful place as our country’s official national bird.”

Additional cosponsors include Dean Phillips (MN-03), Tom Emmer (MN-06), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), and Don Beyer (VA-08). Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), and Tina Smith (D-MN).