Concerns are mounting for Big Bear’s cherished bald eagle couple, Shadow and Jackie. Recently, one of their three eaglets, which had just hatched, went missing.
The excitement was palpable when fans tuned into a live feed to witness the birth of the eaglets. The last little chick made its appearance early on March 8, and viewers marveled at the adorable fluff balls. For a week, the proud parents diligently fed and cared for their chicks, creating a captivating scene for the audience.
However, things took a worrying turn. By the following Friday morning, only two chicks could be seen fluttering in the nest. A snow bank, leftover from a recent storm, blocked the camera’s view, making it hard to see what had happened. Friends of Big Bear Valley, the organization managing the live feed, confirmed later that one gray fuzz ball might be all that remained of the third chick. They acknowledged the difficulty of this situation in a public log, sharing the heartbreak of many viewers.
On Saturday, over 65,000 fans watched as one of the parents fed the two remaining chicks, but a small object nearby hinted at the loss of the third. This event echoed the challenges Shadow and Jackie faced in previous years. In 2023, their eggs fell prey to ravens. The year before, harsh cold weather disrupted their nesting.
The organization took to social media to clarify misunderstandings about eagle behavior, reassuring fans that Shadow and Jackie were not to blame for the chick’s disappearance. They emphasized that nature is unpredictable, and it’s essential to approach these situations with compassion and patience. Viewing how wildlife operates can pull at our emotions, but it’s crucial to remember that nature can be harsh and beyond our control.
Bald eagles are a symbol of strength and resilience. In recent years, their populations have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there were around 316,000 bald eagles in the lower 48 states as of 2021, a remarkable recovery from the brink of extinction in the 20th century. This resurgence gives hope, but it also reminds us of the fragility of wildlife.
The community around Shadow and Jackie remains supportive and hopeful. People across social media have shared messages of love and encouragement for the eagle family. As we keep watching and waiting for updates, we’re reminded of the awe and complexity of nature.
This story highlights not just the life of two eagles but the collective human spirit connecting to wildlife. As we witness these moments, let’s embrace the beauty and unpredictability of nature.
For more insights, check the report by the Los Angeles Times.
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Source linkbald eagle, Big Bear Lake, Friends of Big Bear Valley, Shadow, Jackie
