# § 306. National bird
The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is the national bird.
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**Source Credit**: (Added Pub. L. 118–206, § 1(b), Dec. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 2699.)
## Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
### Rule of Construction
> “Nothing in this section [enacting this section and provisions set out as a note under this section], the amendments made by this section, or the adoption of the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States may be construed or used as a reason to alter, change, modify, or otherwise affect any plan, policy, management decision, regulation, or other action of the Federal Government.”
, , , provided that:
### Findings
> **“(1)** bald eagles are a historical symbol of the United States representing independence, strength, and freedom;
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> **“(2)** the bald eagle is unique to North America;
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> **“(3)** on June 20, 1782, the bald eagle was adopted as the Coat of Arms for the United States Great Seal;
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> **“(4)** the bald eagle image remains the leading insignia for all branches of the United States military;
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> **“(5)** the bald eagle is the leading image on thousands of Federal Government branches, departments, and agencies, including the President, Vice-President, Congress, and Senate;
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> **“(6)** the bald eagle serves as the logo, trademark, and brand icon for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and sports teams across the United States;
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> **“(7)** bald eagles are integral to the spiritual lives and sacred belief systems of most Indigenous peoples and Tribal communities;
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> **“(8)** bald eagles are prevalent in belief, practice, stories, ceremonies, dance, traditions, songs, regalia, flags, insignias, arts, craft, and other forms of spiritual reverence;
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> **“(9)** bald eagle festivals are—
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> **“(A)** held in over 100 locations across the United States; and
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> **“(B)** key components of community engagement;
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> **“(10)** the bald eagle is prevalent on—
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> **“(A)** hundreds of United States stamps; and
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> **“(B)** many United States coins and currencies;
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> **“(11)** the bald eagle is a primary component and symbol on Federal and State flags throughout the United States; and
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> **“(12)** joint efforts of the Federal Government and State and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and individuals have contributed to the successful recovery of the bald eagle.”
, , , provided that: