Full Breakdown
Jackie the Big Bear Bald Eagle: Death, Necropsy, and Legacy
8/14/2026, 2:34:56 AM
Final Days and Cause of Death
Jackie, the 14-year-old bald eagle, was found grounded after a clash with two sub-adult eagles on July 17, 2026. Rescued by the San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team, she was taken to the Ojai Raptor Center, where veterinarians diagnosed severe anemia, low blood protein, and inflammation of the kidneys and lungs. Despite intensive care—including oxygen therapy, round-the-clock monitoring, and a blood transfusion from the CALM Zoo eagle Spirit—her packed cell volume (PCV) fell below 6 % on July 27, 2026, briefly rose to 9 %, and remained critically low. Additional complications included a large blood clot in her wing and kidney, and inadequate bone-marrow response. Jackie died in the early hours of August 10, 2026 while still under care.
Medical Findings and Necropsy
A necropsy by veterinary pathologists from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance confirmed:
- Large thrombosis in the right wing and one kidney.
- Liver and lung tissue abnormalities.
- Regenerative anemia with PCV consistently below the normal 35-55 % range.
- Insufficient bone-marrow activity to replenish red blood cells.
These findings were communicated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) as the primary contributors to Jackie’s decline.
Official Statements & Responses
“California mourns Jackie, the Big Bear bald eagle who reminded us of the beauty and wonder of California’s wildlife, and our shared responsibility to protect the habitats that sustain it,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
The Ojai Raptor Center expressed its grief: “We know this news will be deeply felt by the many thousands of people around the world who have followed her journey, hoped alongside us, prayed for her, and supported the people caring for her”.
Future of Jackie’s Remains
In compliance with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, CDFW transferred Jackie’s body to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Eagle Repository in Colorado. The remains will support educational programs on eagle conservation.
Shadow’s Prospects and On-the-Ground Observations
Following Jackie’s death, her mate Shadow—approximately 12 years old—remained in the territory. On July 22, 2026, a juvenile female identified as KD1 (banded in the Prado Basin in 2022) was observed sharing a perch with Shadow.
FOBBV’s media manager Jenny Voisard said, “The chances are high that he would find a new mate”.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The precise trigger of Jackie’s illness remains undetermined. Lead poisoning was ruled out on July 23, 2026, but officials have not disclosed whether other toxins or underlying disease contributed. Ongoing laboratory analyses were cited as “still being evaluated,” leaving the exact cause of death officially “unresolved.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “California mourns Jackie, the Big Bear bald eagle who reminded us of the beauty and wonder of California's wildlife, and our shared responsibility to protect the habitats that sustain it,” — Governor Gavin Newsom
- “We know this news will be deeply felt by the many thousands of people around the world who have followed her journey, hoped alongside us, prayed for her, and supported the people caring for her,” — Ojai Raptor Center
- “Another juvenile hopped into the nest yesterday, so nature continues to journey on and unfold, and we'll be here to watch,” — Jenny Voisard, FOBBV spokesperson
