The bald eagle is emblematic of America. It's on coins and bills, graces the Great Seal and inspired conservation efforts that brought the species back from the brink of extinction. Though it was first used as the national symbol more than 240 years ago, Congress had never made it official.

The White House announced on Christmas Eve President Joe Biden signed a bill officially designating the bald eagle as the national bird. The bill, signed Monday after being passed unanimously by Congress,