Utah Senate narrowly heralds Golden Eagle as state "bird of prey" and fast‑tracks bill

Salt Lake City — The Utah Senate on Feb. 10 approved Senate Bill 116 to designate the Golden Eagle as the state’s official bird of prey after a short floor presentation that included a live Golden Eagle brought to the dais.

Sponsor Senator McKell introduced 'Chris,' the Golden Eagle, and representatives from HawkWatch International to explain the cultural and symbolic rationale for the designation. "We have a beautiful, beautiful Golden Eagle," McKell said, calling the bird a symbol of "honesty, truth, majesty, strength, courage, wisdom, power, and freedom." Melissa Halverson of HawkWatch International and Debbie Peterson, identified as an eagle specialist, stood with the bird during the presentation.

Several senators asked questions about species details and gender markings — for example, whether any gold eagles have white head plumes — and used the moment to offer personal anecdotes about observing raptors in Utah. McKell told the Senate the designation complements the state's existing symbols and would honor cultural traditions, including those of Native American groups who view raptors as messengers.

The Senate put the question and conducted a roll-call vote. The presiding officer announced that SB 116 "having received 26 yea votes, 0 nay votes, 3 being absent, passes" and that the measure will be sent to the House for its consideration. Senators and staff then paused for photographs on the floor.

The measure is largely symbolic and does not change regulatory protections for raptors. The bill will next be considered by the Utah House of Representatives according to normal legislative procedures.

Authority for the action is the bill text filed as SB 116; the Senate returned the approved bill to the House after floor passage.