The Big Bear community is mourning the loss of Jackie, the bald eagle who captured the hearts of people worldwide. After more than three weeks of intensive medical care at the Ojai Raptor Center, wildlife officials confirmed that the bird passed away early on August 10. Jackie had been struggling with severe health complications, including anemia, following a conflict with other bald eagles near Big Bear Lake.
Fans across the globe followed her condition through the Friends of Big Bear Valley live camera. The eagle was a local fixture, known for her partnership with mate Shadow and their successful nesting history since 2018. Veterinarians worked with specialists nationwide to treat her, performing advanced procedures like CT scans and bone marrow biopsies in a final effort to save her.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife officials announced that a necropsy is pending at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Following the examination, her remains will be moved to the National Eagle Repository. This facility handles the distribution of eagle parts to federally recognized tribes for cultural and ceremonial use, and supports educational programs for bald and golden eagle conservation.
Local residents have started a memorial in Big Bear, leaving flowers to honor the bird. Officials noted that Jackie’s legacy extends beyond her life in the valley. Her story increased public interest in the conservation of wild places and the species that inhabit them. Governor Gavin Newsom and wildlife directors expressed their gratitude to the medical teams who fought for her recovery and reiterated the importance of protecting California wildlife habitats for future generations.