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The Big Bear community and wildlife lovers around the world are mourning the loss of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle whose life captured the hearts of millions through the Friends of Big Bear Valley nest camera.
The Big Bear community and wildlife lovers around the world are mourning the loss of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle whose life captured the hearts of millions through the Friends of Big Bear Valley nest camera.
Jackie passed away on August 10, 2026, following several weeks of intensive veterinary care. Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter for Big Bear Valley, where Jackie became much more than a familiar presence in the skies she became a symbol of resilience, wildlife conservation, and the natural beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains.
In July, concern grew after Jackie was observed grounded near Big Bear Lake and unable to fly normally. Local residents and visitors stayed nearby, keeping watch over her while seeking assistance.
Eventually, a concerned individual went directly to San Bernardino County Fire Station 96 in Fawnskin to report the situation.
Captain Dennis Jones and his crew responded.
According to Friends of Big Bear Valley, Captain Jones and his team remained with Jackie for several hours, helping protect her from wildlife and human interference while working to reach specialized wildlife rescuers. The crew connected with the San Dimas Raptor Rescue team of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation and stayed with Jackie until rescuers arrived around 2:00 a.m.
Their presence helped ensure Jackie remained protected during the critical hours before she could be transferred into specialized care.
Following her rescue, Jackie was transported to the Ojai Raptor Center, where veterinary professionals began extensive treatment.
Jackie was found to be underweight and severely anemic and was also experiencing kidney inflammation. During the weeks that followed, she received intensive veterinary treatment, including oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion.
Despite the extraordinary efforts of the veterinary team and wildlife professionals caring for her, Jackie's condition ultimately worsened. She passed away in the early morning hours of August 10.
The exact underlying cause of her illness had not been definitively determined at the time her passing was announced, and her remains were transferred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for further evaluation.
For years, Jackie and her mate, Shadow, gave people around the world an extraordinary window into the lives of bald eagles in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Through the Friends of Big Bear Valley nest camera, viewers witnessed their bond, nesting seasons, harsh winter storms, victories, losses, and the raising of their young.
Jackie became an ambassador for her species without ever leaving the wilderness she called home.
Her passing is deeply felt throughout Big Bear Valley and far beyond it. But her story also serves as a reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to protect wildlife in need.
From the residents and visitors who refused to leave her side, to Captain Dennis Jones and the Station 96 crew who answered the call, to the San Dimas Raptor Rescue team and the veterinary professionals who fought for her recovery, Jackie was surrounded by people determined to give her every possible chance.
The San Bernardino County Fire Foundation joins the community in remembering Jackie and extends its gratitude to Captain Jones, the Fawnskin Station 96 crew, wildlife rescuers, veterinary professionals, and community members whose compassion helped protect one of Big Bear Valley's most treasured residents.
Jackie's wings may no longer soar above Big Bear, but the impact she made and the community that rallied around her will not be forgotten.
San Bernardino County Fire Foundation
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