Beloved Bald Eagle Jackie Dies After Battle With Mysterious Illness
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Big Bear’s Bald Eagle Jackie Dies
Big Bear, California’s beloved bald eagle Jackie has died after battling a mysterious illness that left her in critical condition for several weeks.
Jackie became one of the most recognizable bald eagles in the country through the popular Big Bear Valley eagle nest livestream. For years, viewers around the world followed her life alongside her longtime mate, Shadow, watching the pair build their nest, defend their territory and raise eaglets.
The Ojai Raptor Center announced Monday, August 10, that Jackie died in the early hours of the morning after more than three weeks of intensive medical care.
Despite the efforts of veterinarians and consulting specialists, her condition continued to deteriorate. She had been receiving oxygen therapy, supportive treatment and around-the-clock monitoring in the center’s intensive care unit.
Jackie was transferred to the Ojai Raptor Center after she was rescued near Big Bear Lake in July. She was suffering from severe anemia, and her blood levels repeatedly fell to dangerously low levels during her treatment.
In the days leading up to her death, veterinarians reported that her packed cell volume had dropped below 6%, briefly rising to 9% before her condition worsened again.
The medical team also conducted additional testing, including a contrast CT scan and bone marrow biopsy, as they worked to determine what was causing Jackie’s illness. Her care involved a collaborative group of veterinarians, along with representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The team shared that they are “heartbroken” over Jackie’s passing, asking for patience and kindless as they processed the loss. You can read their full statement remembering Jackie below.
