Big Bear's Beloved Bald Eagles Welcome Third Egg After Losses

Jackie and Shadow's resilience offers hope after heartbreaking start to nesting season.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

After losing their first two eggs due to cracking and raven intrusion, Big Bear's famous bald eagle pair Jackie and Shadow have laid a third egg, providing their devoted online community with renewed optimism. The Friends of Big Bear Valley, who operate the popular eagle cam livestream, confirmed the tragic initial losses but noted that Jackie's hormones have reset, allowing her to lay another egg on February 24, 2026.

Why it matters

The story of Jackie and Shadow's nesting journey resonates with a global audience, drawing thousands of viewers to the Big Bear Eagle Cam and fostering a deeper connection between humans and nature. Their resilience in the face of adversity highlights the challenges wildlife can face and the importance of conservation efforts.

The details

The first two eggs were lost due to a combination of natural cracking and an intrusion by a raven, which deeply affected the online community that has followed the pair's journey for years. Fortunately, Jackie's body responded positively, and her hormones reset, allowing her to lay another egg. There is also the possibility of Jackie laying additional eggs through April, raising hopes for a larger clutch.

  • Jackie laid her third egg on February 24, 2026.
  • The initial two eggs were lost in January 2026 due to cracking and raven intrusion.

The players

Jackie and Shadow

A resident pair of bald eagles in Big Bear Lake, California, who have been the focus of a popular livestream by the Friends of Big Bear Valley for years.

Friends of Big Bear Valley

The organization that maintains the popular livestream of the bald eagle nest and provides updates on the eagles' nesting journey.

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What’s next

The Friends of Big Bear Valley will continue to monitor the nest and provide updates on Jackie and Shadow's nesting progress. Fans will eagerly await the potential for additional eggs and the eventual hatching of the chicks.

The takeaway

The resilience and perseverance demonstrated by Jackie and Shadow in the face of adversity serve as an inspiring example of the strength and adaptability of wildlife. Their story highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the power of connecting people with the natural world through initiatives like the Big Bear Eagle Cam.