Image Source: CBS News
Big Bear bald eagle Jackie is facing a difficult setback in her recovery after new bloodwork showed that her condition has worsened. The Ojai Raptor Center, where Jackie is receiving veterinary care, shared the concerning update Monday, saying that “today’s bloodwork brought some difficult news.”
Jackie has been away from her Big Bear nest and her longtime mate, Shadow, for a little more than two weeks. She was rescued after becoming involved in a fight with two other eagles and has remained under close observation at the wildlife rehabilitation center in Ojai.
Big Bear Bald Eagle Jackie’s Health Takes a Critical Turn
The latest test results showed that Jackie’s packed cell volume, commonly used to help assess red blood cell levels, had fallen to 13%. That figure is down from 17% reported previously.
The decline is especially concerning because Jackie had shown signs of improvement in her anemia during the previous week. Her veterinary team is now working quickly to determine what may have caused the setback and how best to adjust her treatment.
According to the Ojai Raptor Center, additional advanced diagnostic testing is underway. The center also requested expedited laboratory testing as veterinarians continue trying to understand Jackie’s condition and identify the next steps in her care.
“Our veterinary team is responding quickly,” the center said in its update. Officials added that they do not yet have further answers to share but promised to provide meaningful information as soon as it becomes available.
Why Jackie’s Recovery Matters to Wildlife Supporters
Jackie’s story has drawn widespread attention because millions of viewers have watched her life through the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam. The livestream, operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley, offers a close look at the daily activities of Jackie and Shadow and has helped build a devoted community of eagle watchers.
The pair became parents again in April, when they welcomed two eaglets named Sandy and Luna. Their nesting activity has been followed closely by viewers who have watched the young birds grow and observed the adult eagles’ routines in the San Bernardino Mountains.
The livestream project has also become an important educational tool. It allows people to observe bald eagle behavior from a distance while encouraging interest in conservation, habitat protection and responsible wildlife viewing.
Friends of Big Bear Valley and the Ojai Raptor Center have not announced when Jackie might return to the nest. Her recovery will depend on the results of the new testing, her response to treatment and the veterinary team’s assessment of whether she is strong enough to be released.
What Happens Next for Jackie?
For now, Jackie remains under professional care at the Ojai Raptor Center. Veterinarians are expected to review the advanced test results and continue monitoring her bloodwork, energy levels and overall condition.
A packed cell volume reading can provide important information about anemia and a bird’s ability to transport oxygen through its body. However, the number alone does not explain the underlying cause of a health problem. That is why the center is seeking more detailed diagnostic information before offering a broader prognosis.
- Jackie was rescued after a fight with two other eagles.
- She has been receiving treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center for more than two weeks.
- Her packed cell volume fell from 17% to 13%.
- Advanced diagnostic and expedited laboratory testing are underway.
- Her return to the Big Bear nest has not been determined.
Supporters are now waiting for the next official update while hoping Jackie can stabilize. The Ojai Raptor Center said it would continue to keep the public informed as new, reliable information becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Big Bear bald eagle Jackie?
Jackie was rescued after a fight with two other eagles. She has been under veterinary care at the Ojai Raptor Center for a little more than two weeks.
Why is Jackie’s latest health update concerning?
Her packed cell volume dropped to 13%, down from 17%. The decline followed signs of improvement in her anemia the previous week.
What tests are being performed on Jackie?
The Ojai Raptor Center said advanced diagnostic testing is underway and that expedited laboratory testing has been requested to better understand her condition.
Who is Jackie’s mate?
Jackie’s mate is Shadow. The pair live at a nest in Big Bear that is watched by viewers through the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam.
When will Jackie return to the nest?
There is no announced timetable for Jackie’s return. Veterinarians will need to evaluate her response to treatment and determine whether she is healthy enough to be released.
