More than 2,000 people gathered in Big Bear on Saturday to honor Jackie, a bald eagle who became an unexpected symbol of community and conservation through a widely followed livestream of her nest. The memorial drew fans from across California and beyond, who came to remember the eagle known for raising chicks alongside her mate, Shadow, amid the towering Jeffrey pines overlooking Big Bear Lake.
Jackie’s story captivated millions as viewers witnessed her life and parenting on the continuous online broadcast managed by Friends of Big Bear Valley, a local nonprofit. Attendees at the event, which lasted two hours, wore Jackie-themed hats and T-shirts, with some bringing bald eagle plush toys. San Bernardino County Supervisor Dawn Rowe described Jackie as a teacher, mother, neighbor, and ambassador who “brought us together” during divided times.
The eagle was found weak and unable to fly in mid-July on the lake’s north shore after an altercation with two younger eagles. Rescued by wildlife experts, she was taken to the Ojai Raptor Center for treatment. Despite a blood transfusion to address severe anemia and a series of medical tests including a CT scan and bone marrow biopsy, the cause of her decline remained undetermined. Results from a necropsy are still pending.
Jackie’s passing marked a somber moment for the community that had followed her journey closely. Local resident Doria Rone, who described herself as a long-time eagle fan, expressed both sorrow and gratitude for the shared mourning. “I met people that came in from L.A. and Texas… I’m crying with tears of joy too,” she said. Another attendee, Michael Lichtman from Carlsbad, noted the unlikely bond created by following the life of an eagle: “Who could have thought an eagle in a nest could have brought us here with all these strangers?”
Officials representing various levels of government spoke at the memorial, highlighting Jackie’s role in inspiring conservation efforts and fostering a sense of connection to the natural world. San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor Danelle “DD” Harrison reflected on how quickly Jackie and Shadow had become special figures within the community, noting the public’s deep affection for the birds.
The past year had been a mix of challenges and triumphs for Jackie and those who cared for her story. After losing her first clutch of eggs to ravens in January, the eagle laid new eggs that hatched near Easter, producing two fledged chicks named Sandy and Luna. The death of Sandy Steers, executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, earlier in the year also compounded the community’s sense of loss.
Following Jackie’s illness, a female eagle identified as “KD1” or Kaydee appeared at the nest, forming a new bond with Shadow. Observers have documented the pair spending nights roosting together and flying in tandem at dawn, signaling the beginning of a new chapter at the Big Bear nest.