WASHINGTON — The bald eagle, a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for more than 240 years, earned an overdue honor on Tuesday: It officially became the country’s national bird.

Legislation naming the bald eagle as the U.S. national bird passed in the House on Monday, and in the Senate back in July. The bipartisan bill has been sent to President Joe Biden for signature.

In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird.