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.

President Joe Biden signed a bill into law that officially named the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. Though a longstanding symbol of 'independence, strength and freedom,' the bird of prey never received a formal designation.

Florida ranks third in the nation when it comes to the number of nesting bald eagles. Watch daily life of North Fort Myers Beach eaglets.