Image Source: KTLA
Jackie the eagle, the beloved bald eagle known around the world through a live nest camera in Big Bear Valley, has died after a prolonged illness. The Ojai Raptor Center announced that Jackie died early Monday morning, August 10, 2026, after her condition worsened despite intensive medical treatment.
The news brought heartbreak to thousands of wildlife followers who had tracked Jackie’s rescue, treatment and recovery efforts over the past several weeks. She was one half of a well-known bald eagle pair, living alongside her mate, Shadow.
A heartbreaking loss for Big Bear eagle watchers
The Ojai Raptor Center said Jackie remained critically ill in its intensive care unit during her final days. She received oxygen therapy, supportive treatment and around-the-clock monitoring as medical staff worked to stabilize her.
“She remained critically ill, receiving oxygen therapy, supportive treatment, and around-the-clock monitoring in our intensive care unit,” the center said in a statement shared Monday.
Officials added that Jackie’s condition continued to deteriorate over several days. The center said every medical decision was based on the available evidence, Jackie’s welfare and what was considered to be in her best interest.
“Our team is heartbroken. It has been an extraordinary privilege to care for her,” the Ojai Raptor Center said, acknowledging the worldwide community that followed her journey and supported her caregivers.
What happened to Jackie the eagle?
Jackie was discovered grounded near Big Bear Lake approximately three weeks before her death. Wildlife experts determined that she was suffering from anemia and inflammation affecting her kidneys, leaving her in a critical condition.
During her treatment, Jackie received a life-saving blood transfusion from Spirit, another female bald eagle who lives at CALM Zoo in Bakersfield. The transfusion offered a temporary boost as veterinarians continued investigating and treating her serious health problems.
Despite those efforts, Jackie’s blood levels continued to fall, and veterinarians described her condition as unstable on Sunday. The following morning, the Ojai Raptor Center confirmed that she had died.
Jackie’s remains transferred to wildlife officials
Jackie’s remains have been transferred to the care of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The agency will oversee the next steps involving the bald eagle’s remains.
The Ojai Raptor Center did not announce additional details about the cause of Jackie’s illness. However, the center’s updates described a serious medical crisis involving anemia, kidney inflammation and an ongoing decline despite supportive care.
- Jackie was rescued near Big Bear Lake.
- She was diagnosed with anemia and kidney inflammation.
- She received oxygen therapy and intensive monitoring.
- Spirit provided a life-saving blood transfusion.
- Her remains were transferred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
A lasting legacy in Big Bear Valley
Jackie became a familiar figure through Friends of Big Bear Valley’s live nest camera. Viewers around the world watched her and Shadow, turning the pair into a powerful symbol of wildlife, companionship and conservation in Southern California.
For many followers, the nest camera provided an intimate look at bald eagle behavior and the challenges faced by wild birds. Jackie’s rescue prompted an outpouring of concern, prayers and financial support for the people working to save her.
Her death is also a reminder that wild animals can face complex and rapidly progressing health problems even when they receive specialized care. The medical team at the Ojai Raptor Center said caring for Jackie had been an extraordinary privilege, while supporters mourned the loss of one of Big Bear’s most recognizable animals.
Friends of Big Bear Valley’s camera will continue to draw attention to the area’s bald eagles and their habitat. Jackie’s story, meanwhile, is likely to remain an important part of the community’s wildlife history.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Jackie the eagle?
Jackie was a beloved bald eagle from Big Bear Valley and one half of a pair featured on Friends of Big Bear Valley’s live nest camera. Her mate was named Shadow.
When did Jackie die?
The Ojai Raptor Center said Jackie died early Monday morning, August 10, 2026, after her condition deteriorated during treatment.
What illness did Jackie have?
Experts said Jackie was anemic and had inflammation affecting her kidneys. She remained critically ill despite oxygen therapy, supportive care and continuous monitoring.
Did Jackie receive a blood transfusion?
Yes. Jackie received a life-saving blood transfusion from Spirit, a female bald eagle who lives at CALM Zoo in Bakersfield.
What happened to Jackie’s remains?
Jackie’s remains were transferred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
