An eagle believed to be Jackie, a well-known figure from the Big Bear Lake nest livestream, is currently receiving treatment for anemia and inflamed kidneys at the Ojai Raptor Center after being rescued last weekend. The bird was found weakened and lethargic, prompting immediate veterinary intervention.
The rescue took place early Saturday morning, led by the San Dimas Raptor Rescue team, part of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. Upon arrival at the center, Jackie appeared underweight with disheveled feathers and mud-covered feet. Initial examinations revealed no signs of physical trauma, but the bird’s condition was critical.
Veterinarians at the Ojai Raptor Center are conducting tests to determine whether exposure to toxins such as lead, zinc, or rodenticides may have contributed to the eagle’s illness. Lead poisoning is a recognized hazard for bald eagles in the Big Bear area, where fishing activities are common and lead sinkers can contaminate their food sources. However, X-rays have so far revealed no metal objects in Jackie’s system. The center’s team is collaborating with specialist veterinarians to provide the necessary supportive care as they await further test results.
Despite the serious nature of the case, the center reported some positive signs by Tuesday afternoon. Jackie was observed eating both independently and with assistance, standing, perching, and demonstrating clear signs of resistance by struggling with the staff administering care. “She is mad and fighting the staff… That’s our Jackie, a strong and mighty eagle!” the nonprofit group Friends of Big Bear Valley, which operates the nest livestream, said in a social media update. Yet the center emphasized the continuing critical status and cautioned that the outcome remains uncertain.
Friends of Big Bear Valley strongly believe the rescued eagle is Jackie, based on recent absences from the nest camera combined with photographic comparisons. Jackie and her mate, Shadow, have been widely followed by a global audience through 24/7 livestreams, where they recently raised two eaglets—Luna and Sandy. Both juveniles have fledged but remain near the nest, dependent on parental care. With Jackie incapacitated, Shadow has been managing the nest duties alone, according to the nonprofit’s media manager, Jenny Voisard.
The cause of Jackie’s sudden deterioration remains unclear. Prior footage showed the eagle engaging in sparring behavior with younger bald eagles, both in the air and on the ground, but whether this affected her health is unknown. Officials note that lead toxicity remains a concern, though no definitive diagnosis has been made.
The Ojai Raptor Center continues to provide attentive care and has pledged to keep the public informed as more information becomes available. The situation has drawn a strong response from fans and followers of the eagle’s story, highlighting the deep connection communities can form with wildlife they watch closely but rarely see in person.