BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. — Jackie, the widely followed bald eagle from Southern California's Big Bear Valley nest camera, is showing signs of progress as veterinarians continue treating her after she was rescued with serious health complications following an apparent territorial encounter with other eagles.
The Ojai Raptor Center, where Jackie is receiving care, said she remains in critical condition but has become more alert, is standing and perching, and has been eating with assistance while also beginning to pick up food on her own. Veterinarians said those developments are encouraging, although they stressed it remains too early to predict the outcome.
According to Friends of Big Bear Valley, the nonprofit that operates the popular Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam, Jackie disappeared after what observers reported was an apparent altercation with younger bald eagles. She was later found weak near the shoreline of Big Bear Lake and rescued by the San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team before being transferred to the Ojai Raptor Center for specialized treatment.
Initial blood tests found Jackie was suffering from severe anemia and kidney inflammation. Wildlife veterinarians said additional diagnostic testing is underway to determine the underlying cause, including screening for possible toxin exposure. X-rays found no evidence of fishing hooks, sinkers or other metal objects, according to updates released by the rehabilitation center and Friends of Big Bear Valley.
The nonprofit said Jackie has displayed increasing energy during treatment, describing her as alert and responsive while continuing to receive supportive veterinary care. Officials emphasized that wildlife rehabilitation can require extended observation and that meaningful updates will be released only as confirmed medical information becomes available.
Jackie and her longtime mate, Shadow, have attracted millions of viewers through the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam since the pair began nesting in the area. Their latest eaglets, Sandy and Luna, fledged earlier this year. Friends of Big Bear Valley said Shadow continues to defend the nesting territory while caring for the young birds during Jackie's absence.
Wildlife officials have asked supporters to avoid contacting the rehabilitation center directly for updates, saying veterinary staff remain focused on Jackie's treatment. As of Wednesday, the Ojai Raptor Center said she continues receiving intensive care while specialists await additional test results before determining the next stage of her recovery.
