Fans of the Big Bear bald eagle Jackie need to exercise caution when purchasing merchandise online. Following her death on August 10, opportunistic sellers began listing items featuring her image. Some of these sellers falsely claim that proceeds support the Ojai Raptor Center, the facility that provided medical care during her final weeks.
The Ojai Raptor Center has clarified its position regarding these unauthorized sales. Officials state they do not create or sell merchandise featuring individual patient animals like Jackie. Their official shop only carries branded items representing the center itself. They urge the public to verify the source of any eagle-related goods before making a purchase to ensure funds do not end up in the hands of scammers.
Friends of Big Bear Valley, the nonprofit organization responsible for the 24/7 nest livestream, reported a massive surge in demand for legitimate items after the announcement of Jackie’s passing. Their inventory sold out within 24 hours, with more than 1,100 orders placed on the day of her death alone. The group is currently working to restock their official store to meet this support.
While the loss of Jackie marks a difficult time for the local community, people are encouraged to support only recognized organizations. When you see merchandise featuring Jackie, check for official branding from Friends of Big Bear Valley. If a site claims to benefit the Ojai Raptor Center through specific eagle merchandise, it is likely a scam. Stick to official channels to avoid supporting bad actors who exploit the death of a beloved bird for profit.