Bald Eagle

 

National Emblem of the United States
The Bald Eagle is the national bird of the United States of America. It has been the national emblem of this country since 1782. The bald eagle is not really bald. The word "bald" originates from the word "white headed". This magnificent bird soars high above in the skies from coast to coast of North America. Its range includes most of Canada and Alaska (49th state of the United States), all of United States (except Hawaii), and northern Mexico.

Turkey or Eagle?
There are myths that the Wild Turkey was suggested by Benjamin Franklin to be the national bird. However, he had wrote a letter to his daughter on January 26, 1784 from France. (Source: The Eagle, Ben Franklin, and the Wild Turkey | Great Seal) The Bald Eagle became the national emblem on June 20, 1782. (Source: June 20, 1782 American Eagle | Today in History). I am glad the Bald Eagle is the national bird instead of the Wild Turkey. You can read more about the Great Seal of the United States which includes the past and present seal of the United States.

Did you know there is a National Bald Eagle Day?
President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation making June 20 National Bald Eagle Day. This is what President Reagan stated: Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress (SJ. Res. 121), do hereby proclaim June 20, 1982 as "National Bald Eagle Day" and designate the year 1982 as the "Bicentennial Year of the American Bald Eagle." I call upon the people of the United States to join in these observances with appropriate activities in their homes and communities. (Source: Proclamation 4893—Bicentennial Year of the American Bald Eagle and National Bald Eagle Day)

Learn more about the national bird
Bald Eagle: 1782 | Ben's Guide
Our National Symbol | Eagles.org
How did the bald eagle become America’s national bird? | History.com

Learn more about bald eagles
Bald Eagle | All About Birds
Bald Eagles | National Geographic Kids
Bald Eagle | National Geographic

Learn about the bald eagle in videos
All About Bald Eagles for Kids: Animal Videos for Children - FreeSchool

View bald eagles in web cams
National Arboretum Bald Eagle Nest Cam Washington, DC  - There are two web cams.