BIG BEAR LAKE, California — Jackie, one half of Big Bear’s beloved bald eagle pair, remains in critical condition as veterinarians continue searching for the cause of a serious illness that has left the iconic bird battling severe anemia and kidney inflammation.
The Ojai Raptor Center provided an update Tuesday, saying Jackie remains alert and is eating, but stressed that her condition is still extremely serious. The eagle was rescued last week after being attacked by two bald eagles near the north shore of Big Bear Lake, though experts believe the attack did not cause her current medical problems.
Jackie Remains in Critical Condition
According to the Ojai Raptor Center, Jackie continues to receive intensive treatment while wildlife veterinarians work to determine what is causing her illness.
“Her condition remains critical, and this is still a very serious case,” the center said in a statement. “While the eagle remains alert and is eating, it is still too early to predict the outcome.”
Despite the severity of her condition, caretakers say Jackie has shown encouraging signs by remaining energetic and continuing to eat with assistance.
Experts Investigating Possible Poisoning
Wildlife specialists are conducting additional medical tests to identify the source of Jackie’s illness.
Veterinarians have not ruled out exposure to rodenticides or heavy metals, including lead or zinc. Additional blood tests are underway to check for toxic substances, while X-rays found no evidence of fishing hooks, sinkers or other metal objects inside her body.
“Wildlife medicine takes time, and some answers simply cannot be rushed,” the Ojai Raptor Center said. “As we learn more about this patient’s condition, we will continue to share meaningful updates with you.”
Shadow Continues Caring for Their Eaglets
Jackie and her longtime mate, Shadow, have become internet favorites through the live nest cameras operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley. The pair is currently raising two fledgling eaglets.
With Jackie absent from the nest for nearly a week, Shadow has continued caring for the young birds on his own. Live camera footage captured Tuesday showed Shadow calling out from the nest, a moment many viewers believed may have been directed toward his missing mate.
Friends of Big Bear Valley also shared a hopeful update about Jackie’s fighting spirit.
“We loved hearing that Jackie has more energy this morning,” the organization said. “She is mad and fighting the staff … That’s our Jackie, a strong and mighty eagle!”
Caretakers added that Jackie is eating well, picking up food on her own, and remains able to stand and perch.
Supporters Hope for Recovery
Jackie’s condition has drawn widespread attention from thousands of viewers who have followed the famous eagle pair for years through the Big Bear live cameras.
While veterinarians remain cautiously optimistic about her determination, they emphasize that it is still too early to know whether she will fully recover.
For now, wildlife experts continue monitoring Jackie around the clock as they work to identify the underlying cause of her illness and provide the treatment she needs.
What are your thoughts on Jackie’s remarkable fight for recovery? Share your well wishes and thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
