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 United States has used the bald eagle as a national symbol since George Washington was president. But it only became the national bird this week, and only after a Minnesota man caught the oversight.