National Eagle Day, also known as National American Eagle Day, is celebrated annually on June 20. This observance honors the bald eagle, a powerful symbol of freedom and strength in the United States, while promoting awareness about its conservation and protection.
Quick Facts
- When is it? June 20
- Tagged as: National American Eagle Day
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalEagleDay
- When was it founded? 1995
- Who founded it? The American Eagle Foundation
History of National Eagle Day
The bald eagle was designated as the national bird of the United States in 1782. This majestic bird symbolizes freedom and has long been associated with the ideals of strength and perseverance. Despite its revered status, the bald eagle faced significant threats throughout the 20th century, leading to a drastic decline in its population due to habitat loss, hunting, and pesticide use.
In response to these challenges, the American Eagle Foundation initiated National Eagle Day in 1995 to raise awareness about the importance of protecting this iconic species and its habitats.
Timeline
- 1782: Bald eagle chosen as national symbol by the Second Continental Congress.
- 1967: Bald eagle classified as endangered due to population decline.
- 1972: DDT banned in the U.S., aiding eagle recovery.
- 1995: National Eagle Day established by the American Eagle Foundation.
- 2007: Bald eagle removed from the endangered species list.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | June | 20 | Thursday |
| 2025 | June | 20 | Friday |
| 2026 | June | 20 | Saturday |
Observed
National Eagle Day is not a public holiday, but it is recognized across many states with various events and activities aimed at educating people about bald eagles and their habitats. Organizations often hold workshops, lectures, and community outreach programs on this day.
Fun Facts About Bald Eagles
- Bald eagles can have a wingspan of up to 7 feet and typically weigh between 6 to 14 pounds.
- They primarily feed on fish but will also scavenge or steal food from other birds.
- The largest recorded bald eagle nest was nearly 10 feet wide and weighed around 3 tons!
Quiz
- What year was the bald eagle chosen as the national bird?
- How many nesting pairs of bald eagles are estimated to exist today?
- What is the primary diet of bald eagles?
Answers:
- 1782
- Over 300,000
- Fish
FAQs
Why is the bald eagle important?
The bald eagle represents freedom and has cultural significance in many Native American traditions. It serves as a reminder of successful conservation efforts that helped restore its population after near extinction.
Are bald eagles still endangered?
No, bald eagles are no longer considered endangered; they have made a significant recovery thanks to conservation efforts.
Related
- Bald Eagle Protection Act
- Endangered Species Act
- American Eagle Foundation