UNITED STATES — Happy Fourth of July! What could be more patriotic than bald eagles flying majestically over the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, home to the country’s original national park?

Despite its place in American culture, the bald eagle had not been legally recognized as the official bird of the U.S. until December 2024. Enjoy these snaps of America’s national bird hunting in Yellowstone National Park.

Photo: Jacob W. Frank // National Park Service
Photo: Jacob W. Frank // National Park Service

The bald eagle’s scientific name, “Haliaeetus leucocephalus,” translates to “white-headed sea eagle.”

Check out this pair of bald eagles fighting over a bison carcass. Such drama!

Photo: Jim Peaco // National Park Service
Photo: Jim Peaco // National Park Service

Bonus: Here’s a nice close-up of a bald eagle perched in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP).

Photo: Adams // National Park Service

This shot of an eagle flying in GTNP offers a glimpse of its tucked up talons.

Photo: Adams // National Park Service

Enjoy a few more regal eagle shots, by Buckrail’s own Nick Sulzer.

Photo: Nick Sulzer // Buckrail
Photo: Nick Sulzer // Buckrail

Have a safe and happy Fourth!

Marianne is the Editor of Buckrail. She handles breaking news and reports on a little bit of everything. She's interested in the diversity of our community, arts/entertainment and crazy weather.