SE Wyoming News

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) introduced legislation to make the bald eagle the national bird for the United States.

"There is nothing more American than a bald eagle soaring across the Wyoming sky," said Lummis. "These majestic creatures have long been viewed as the official bird of this country and it is past time we made it official without costing taxpayers a single cent. As we approach the Fourth of July, I am thrilled to partner with Senators Amy Klobuchar, Markwayne Mullin and Tina Smith to make the bald eagle the national bird of the United States."

"The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation," said Mullin. "It’s only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I am glad to join my colleagues on this introduction."

"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."

While many people think that the bald eagle is already recognized as such, currently there is no designated national bird in place. On June 20, 1782, however, Congress installed it on front of The Great Seal; since then it has become one favored representative second only behind American flag itself.

Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) cosponsored this legislative measure.