Jackie, one half of Big Bear's well-known bald eagle pair, has been transferred from intensive care, marking a positive development for the raptor who was rescued in a critical state earlier this month.
The Ojai Raptor Center announced the bird's improved condition on Wednesday via social media, but emphasized that Jackie "remains a very sick patient" and is continuing to receive intensive treatment in a standard hospital care unit. During her time in the previous intensive care unit, the 14-year-old eagle required oxygen therapy. The center stated, "This is an encouraging step forward, but it does not mean she is out of danger." Jackie has been under the center's care and diagnostic evaluation since her transfer on July 18.
Upon her rescue from the shores of Big Bear Lake, Jackie was found to be underweight and in poor condition. While video footage taken shortly before her capture depicted her interacting with two younger eagles, subsequent examinations revealed no external injuries or fractures.
Details regarding the specific cause of Jackie's symptoms, including severe anemia, have not been updated in the Ojai Raptor Center's recent posts. Although experts have ruled out lead toxicity and the ingestion of foreign objects, a definitive diagnosis remains elusive. During her treatment, Jackie received a vital blood transfusion from a donor eagle. A setback occurred on Saturday when her blood values decreased, but she has shown signs of recovery since then.
The Ojai Raptor Center officially refers to the eagle as "26-519," citing regulations that prohibit the public naming of their patients. However, it is widely understood that they are caring for the renowned bird. Jackie and her long-time mate, Shadow, gained significant public attention through a livestream of their nest, attracting thousands of viewers. As Jackie's health situation progresses, fans have expressed concern and speculation about the future of the pair.
Friends of Big Bear Valley, a nonprofit organization responsible for the nest livestream, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding future events in a social media post on Wednesday. Following Jackie's removal, Shadow was observed on a perch tree with a subadult eagle, potentially a female who had a brief confrontation with Jackie. The nonprofit noted, "We are all concerned and curious about what the future holds for Shadow, only he knows. We can say that Shadow is loyal to his nest, territory and Jackie. He may decide to hold out for the long term, he may find a new mate, or he may even leave the Big Bear area. We can only observe, hope for the best and see what the outcome is."
The nonprofit has stated that the intention is to release Jackie back to her natural habitat once she is healthy, capable of hunting, and able to defend herself. If the eagles are separated, it would signify the end of an era for the pair, who formed in 2018 after Shadow replaced Jackie's previous mate. This nesting season, the couple successfully raised two eaglets, Sandy and Luna, who have both fledged. Neither eaglet has been seen on the nonprofit's cameras since Thursday, leading the organization to believe they have likely embarked on their migratory journey, wishing them "a safe and successful life."
