WASHINGTON, DC – The bald eagle, a longstanding symbol of America, was officially declared the national bird on Christmas Eve when President Biden signed new legislation into law. Despite its prominent presence on coins, bills, and the Great Seal for over 240 years, Congress had never formally designated it as the national bird—until now.

Minnesota resident Preston Cook has long pushed lawmakers to designate the bald eagle as the country’s official bird. He even penned a draft of the legislation that he sent to lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Preston lives in Wabasha, Minn., home of the National Eagle Center. This week, his effort paid off.