Full Breakdown
Jackie the Big Bear Bald Eagle: Rescue, Critical Care, and Ongoing Uncertainty
7/24/2026, 3:24:44 AM
Core Event
On July 17 an adult bald eagle was found grounded near Dana Point Park after a fight with two subadult eagles. The Los Angeles County Parks San Dimas Raptor Rescue team retrieved the bird early the next morning (July 18 2 a.m.) and transferred it to the Ojai Raptor Center, a licensed rehabilitation facility. Identified as “Bald Eagle patient 26-519” and believed to be Jackie, the eagle was listed in critical condition with severe anemia and kidney inflammation. Bloodwork confirmed these issues; the center awaits tests for lead, zinc and rodenticide exposure.
Background & Context
Jackie and her mate Shadow have been featured on the Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) live-nest cam since 2015, attracting a global audience. Their territory in the San Bernardino National Forest is regularly defended, and July 16-17’s altercation is a typical territorial dispute for raptors.
Timeline
- July 16-17 – Video shows a ground altercation.
- July 17 – Eagle observed grounded.
- July 18 2 a.m. – Rescue team transports bird to Ojai.
- July 20 – FOBBV says the rescued bird is “likely Jackie.”
- July 22 – No further medical update released.
Data & Statistics
- X-rays show no metal objects in the bird.
- Nationwide studies indicate ?50 % of bald eagles test positive for lead and ?89 % for rodenticide residues.
- 70 % of bald-eagle fledglings survive to independence, underscoring the importance of adult health.
Why It Matters
Jackie’s case highlights two threats to raptors: territorial violence and environmental toxins such as lead and rodenticides. The livestream has mobilized donors who fund veterinary care and broader conservation outreach.
Official Statements & Responses
The Ojai Raptor Center called the case “very serious,” noting the eagle is alert, eating and standing but that outcome predictions are premature. FOBBV said the bird is receiving “the best of the best” care and asked the public not to contact the hotline until updates are available. Dr. Todd Katzner of the U.S. Geological Survey warned that “an injury like this is probably human-associated in the beginning, and it’s a good reminder of the role that we play in the environment.”
Criticism & Opposition
“The cruelty of humans is unbelievable,” said Jennifer Cedarleaf, avian director at the Alaska Raptor Center, adding that rodenticide and metal poisoning are among the “worst threats to bald eagles.”
On-the-Ground Reports
Rescue team member Noemi Navar noted the capture took only a few minutes.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Jackie is not banded, so officials cannot confirm her identity with 100 % certainty. Some outlets refer to the bird as “the adult” or “the rescued eagle,” while FOBBV says it is “likely Jackie.” The cause of the anemia and kidney inflammation remains unknown pending toxicology results.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Her condition remains critical, and this is still a very serious case,” — Ojai Raptor Center
- “An injury like this is probably human-associated in the beginning, and it's a good reminder of the role that we play in the environment,” — Dr. Katzner
These statements, combined with ongoing monitoring, will shape future updates on Jackie’s recovery and the Big Bear eagle family.
