The bird of brown and white feathers has long represented the United States as a majestic and soaring symbol, but only this week did a law make it official.

Though a longstanding symbol of "independence, strength and freedom," according to Congress, the bird of prey never received a formal designation

The bald eagle, a powerful symbol of the U.S., has officially become the country’s national bird. The move came Tuesday with President Joe Biden signing a bill into law to amend the United States Code.