Bald eagles, once on the brink of extinction, are experiencing a remarkable revival in the United States, both ecologically and culturally. From AP News to Newsweek, reports highlight the resurgence of these magnificent birds, which recently were officially named America's national bird by a legislative act signed by President Joe Biden.

This past December, Biden's action affirmed what many believed to be a long-standing title for the bald eagle. Additionally, New Jersey, a state that had only a single nesting pair in the 1980s, recently announced it has removed the bald eagle from its endangered species list, citing a population explosion to nearly 300 active nests. This environmental success story began in earnest after the federal ban on DDT in 1972, an insecticide known to have detrimental effects on eagle eggshell strength and overall reproduction.

Following this ban, conservationists implemented innovative methods to rebuild the bald eagle population. This included importing eagles from stable populations in Canada and employing techniques such as artificial incubation of eggs. As Time reports, these efforts have led to significant increases in their numbers, demonstrating the power of conservation efforts.

Maia Edwards, Science Director at the American Bald Eagle Foundation, emphasizes the importance of sharing their recovery story, stating, “They’re one of the few conservation success stories of animals that almost went extinct on our continent.” In a high-density area like New Jersey, eagles have shown remarkable adaptability, inhabiting regions that face human interaction regularly.

However, these birds still face modern threats, including habitat loss and pollution, along with a current outbreak of avian influenza, which necessitates continued monitoring and vigilance by conservationists. Kathy Clark, head of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, expressed concern but noted the resilience of these birds as they adapt to suburban environments.

The cultural significance of bald eagles cannot be overstated. As they become increasingly populated nationwide, sightings of these majestic raptors provide joy to many bird enthusiasts. Dan Day, a dedicated birder in New Jersey, reflected on the thrill of spotting a bald eagle, noting how such encounters can truly “elevate your day.”

Importantly, the bald eagle serves not only as a national symbol but also an umbrella species, signifying efforts to conserve broader ecosystems essential to their survival. This connection to the environment underscores their role in wildlife preservation efforts, which ultimately benefits lesser-known species and habitats.

Looking ahead, it is critical to continue protecting the bald eagle's habitat while fostering public education on their significance in American culture and ecology. The ongoing efforts to conserve these birds symbolize a broader commitment to environmental stewardship in the United States, reflected in the phrase, “Let’s never forget that Bald Eagle was officially named America’s national bird at the same time the Eagles are headed back to the Super Bowl,” shared by Senator Andy Kim from New Jersey, emphasizing the pride and recognition these birds deserve.

For further details, visit the articles from VOA News, AP News, and others.