Full Breakdown
Jackie the Big Bear Bald Eagle Receives Life-Saving Blood Transfusion Amid Critical Illness
7/24/2026, 12:31:20 PM
Core Event – Rescue, Transfusion and Ongoing Critical Care
An adult female bald eagle identified as Jackie was found grounded near Big Bear Lake on July 16 after a ground altercation with two younger eagles. The Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation’s San Dimas Raptor Rescue team retrieved her and transferred her to the Ojai Raptor Center. Bloodwork showed severe anemia and kidney inflammation. On July 20 the center performed a blood transfusion using blood from Spirit, a resident bald eagle at the California Living Museum (CALM). As of July 23, Jackie remains in intensive care, eating and perching but classified as “critical.”
Background & Context – Nest-Cam Fame and Prior Injuries
Jackie and her mate Shadow have been featured in the Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) livestream since 2015, raising several broods, most recently eaglets Sandy and Luna in April 2026. Earlier nest incidents—including a 2025 chick that survived rodenticide poisoning—have highlighted raptor health challenges in Southern California.
Timeline – Key Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 16 | Jackie spotted on the ground. |
| July 17 | Video shows ground fight; she appears weakened. |
| July 20 | Ojai Raptor Center administers blood transfusion from Spirit. |
| July 23 | Update: Jackie “bright and strong” yet still critical. |
| July 27 (scheduled) | Further health update. |
Data & Statistics – Clinical Findings
- Severe anemia – confirmed by initial bloodwork.
- Kidney inflammation – noted on admission; improved with care.
- Transfusion – single donor, Spirit, provided whole blood to stabilize energy levels.
- Lead toxicosis, fishing-hook fragments, other foreign objects – ruled out by imaging.
Why It Matters – Public Engagement and Conservation Collaboration
Jackie’s case shows how a high-profile wildlife individual can mobilize volunteers, agencies, and zoos. Coordination between LADPR, San Dimas Raptor Rescue, Ojai Raptor Center, and CALM provides a model for emergency raptor care. The online following has generated thousands of messages of support and donations.
Official Statements & Responses
- CALM Zoo – thanked collaborators and noted Spirit’s contribution.
- Friends of Big Bear Valley – confirmed the bird is likely Jackie, highlighted Shadow’s care of the eaglets, and asked the public not to contact the rehab facility.
- Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation – said the rescue team acted quickly and the eagle is receiving specialized care.
Verbatim Quotes
- “She is eating well, perching, and remains bright and strong,” — Ojai Raptor Center.
- “Her condition remains critical at this time,” — Eliza Cameron, raptor center manager.
- “They didn't see any visible injuries, but that she was definitely very weak and needed to eat.” — Jenny Voisard, FOBBV.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps – Identity and Cause of Illness
- Identity – Jackie is not banded; early reports could not confirm the rescued bird’s identity.
- Underlying cause – Lead poisoning and foreign objects have been excluded; the trigger of the anemia (e.g., zinc toxicity, rodenticide exposure, or disease) remains undetermined. Additional tests are pending.
What’s Next – Upcoming Update
The Ojai Raptor Center will issue a follow-up briefing on Monday, July 27. The public is asked to avoid direct contact and continue supporting the rehabilitation effort through donations and positive messages.
