Friends of Big Bear Valley, the organization behind the popular live bald eagle nest camera, is preparing to release new memorial merchandise to honor the legacy of Jackie. The beloved eagle died on August 10 after a three-week battle with an unknown illness, despite intensive medical treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center. She was approximately 14 years old and gained international fame through the nest camera that captured her life and family in Big Bear Valley.
The upcoming release will feature a Jackie Strong benefit shirt. The nonprofit confirmed the items are in production but warned that shipping will take several months due to the high volume of interest. The organization has sold out of all current inventory and requested that fans check back soon for exact ordering details, as they are no longer able to manage individual waiting lists.
Support for the organization is also coming from a regional sports team. The Ontario Tower Buzzers scheduled a Fly High, Jackie Night for August 23 at ONT Field. Half of the proceeds from ticket sales through a dedicated link will go directly to the Friends of Big Bear Valley to aid their ongoing conservation efforts.
Meanwhile, life continues at the nest. Shadow, Jackie’s mate, has been observed in the habitat recently accompanied by a banded subadult eagle known as KD1. While it remains unclear if this indicates a new bond, the organization noted that Shadow is currently not alone. Breeding season for the eagles is expected to begin later this fall or winter, and observers are watching the development with interest.