The bald eagle has been lauded as a symbol of the United States, but it wasn't officially the national bird until Tuesday.

The House of Representatives has officially passed a bill to reaffirm the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. The unexpected move sparked a wave of mixed reactions, with critics questioning the

The bald eagle, a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for more than 240 years, earned an overdue honor on Tuesday: It officially became the country's national bird. President Joe Biden signed into law legislation sent to him by Congress that amends the United States Code to correct what had long gone unnoticed and designate the bald eagle — familiar to many because of its white head,

Known for its striking white head, yellow beak and brown body, the bald eagle is indigenous to North America and embodies the nation’s strength and freedom.