Bald eagle Jackie rescue update: Critical but improving
Jackie, the viral Big Bear bald eagle, remains in critical condition at the Ojai Raptor Center after a fight with two subadult eagles near her nest. The bald eagle Jackie rescue by San Dimas Raptor Rescue led to treatment for severe anemia and kidney inflammation, though she is alert, eating, and showing early progress.
Key Takeaways
- Jackie is in critical condition at the Ojai Raptor Center with severe anemia and kidney inflammation.
- She was rescued near Big Bear Lake after a ground fight with two younger eagles on July 17-18.
- Wildlife experts found no serious trauma from the attack; toxicology tests for lead, zinc, and rodenticide are pending.
- Mate Shadow is caring for eaglets Sandy and Luna while Jackie recovers.
- Jackie is alert, energetic, eating, standing, and perching despite the serious case.
What happened during the bald eagle Jackie rescue?
On July 17, a bald eagle later identified as Jackie was seen on the ground near Dana Point Park on Big Bear Lake's north shore. She then faced a short ground altercation with two subadult bald eagles.
Cellphone video showed she fended them off with her talons but could not fly far. Locals stayed with her and alerted agencies. San Bernardino County fire crews in Fawnskin helped notify L.A. County Parks' San Dimas Raptor Rescue, which picked her up on July 18 and transferred her to the Ojai Raptor Center.
Friends of Big Bear Valley initially noted the bird was not banded, so identity took review of photos and video. The nonprofit later said the rescued eagle was likely Jackie. For more bizarre animal stories, follow our hub coverage.
Why is Jackie still in critical condition?
According to KTLA, wildlife experts found no serious injuries from the fight itself. Instead, Jackie is battling severe anemia and inflammation infecting her kidneys.
The Ojai Raptor Center is still seeking the underlying cause. Bloodwork for lead, zinc, and rodenticide is pending. X-rays showed no fishing hooks, sinkers, or other metal objects. Supportive treatment is underway, and the center calls it "still a very serious case."
Eliza Cameron of the Ojai Raptor Center said the eagle arrived lethargic and underweight, with no signs of physical trauma. Kristine Koh of San Dimas Raptor Rescue described her as very weak, underweight, and with disheveled feathers.
Is Jackie making any recovery progress?
Yes—early signs are encouraging even while the outcome remains uncertain. The center said Jackie is alert, energetic, and eating. She is standing and perching.
Friends of Big Bear Valley noted she has more energy, is "mad and fighting the staff," eating with assistance, and even picking up food on her own. Shadow continues to protect the nest and care for fledgling eaglets Sandy and Luna, who recently took their first flight.
Territorial disputes are a normal part of bald eagle life, the Ojai Raptor Center said, though injuries can sometimes be fatal. Donations have poured in from thousands of supporters funding her care.