Jackie the bald eagle recovers after apparent attack in California
The livestream-famous bald eagle is being treated at Ojai Raptor Center after rescuers found her grounded and unable to fly.
By Bianca Rossi · Entertainment Editor
2 min read
Jackie, the bald eagle watched by fans through a Big Bear Valley nest camera, is recovering after she vanished from her California nest and was later found on the ground unable to fly, according to United Press International.
The eagle, known alongside her mate Shadow through a livestream run by Friends of Big Bear Valley, went missing last week. The L.A. County Parks & Recreation San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team rescued her Saturday after she was discovered stranded, UPI reported.
Friends of Big Bear Valley said in a Sunday statement that experts were confident the rescued bird was Jackie. The group has followed the eagle pair through its nest camera, which made Jackie and Shadow familiar names to viewers who track the family online.
Jackie is now being treated at the Ojai Raptor Center. Officials there said she appears to have avoided broken bones or other serious injuries after what was described as an apparent attack by two younger eagles, according to UPI.
The center is still checking her condition. Further tests are being done to see whether the underweight raptor is well enough to return to her nest, UPI reported.
For now, Shadow is holding down the home front. Friends of Big Bear Valley said he has continued looking after the pair’s fledgling eaglets, Sandy and Luna, while guarding the nest and surrounding territory.
The group also sought to reassure the eagle’s anxious online following. “Jackie is a strong eagle and we as a community will get through this,” Friends of Big Bear Valley wrote on social media. “Meanwhile, Shadow is an excellent mate and father, he continues to care for Sandy and Luna while protecting the nest and territory.”
Jackie and Shadow’s nest has been a recurring draw for wildlife watchers. Earlier this year, their family drew attention when the Big Bear bald eagles welcomed two babies, and the nest camera also confirmed the pair had a second egg in January, according to UPI.
The latest update leaves Jackie’s return date uncertain. Wildlife officials and the raptor center are first trying to determine whether she has the strength and health needed to go back to the nest safely.
This story draws on original reporting from UPI.