Beloved Big Bear Bald Eagle Continues Fighting For Her Life Following Weekend Setback

OJAI, CA — Fans of Jackie — the world-famous bald eagle from Big Bear who is seriously ill — received an update Monday on her health.

According to the Ojai Raptor Center, where the eagle is receiving round-the-clock care, her condition is "stable but critical."

"Our veterinary team is working to determine the underlying cause of her illness. She is currently receiving several prophylactic treatments to help support her body," center officials shared in a social media update.

Jackie showed encouraging progress following a blood transfusion last week, but experienced a setback Saturday when her blood values declined. Since then, her condition has improved again. She is eating independently, showing increased energy, and becoming more alert during feedings, veterinarians said.

Despite extensive diagnostic testing, including advanced imaging and consultations with wildlife specialists, a definitive diagnosis remains elusive. Initial testing ruled out lead toxicosis and swallowed fishing gear such as hooks, lines, or weights.

"Cases like this can be incredibly complex, and we will continue adjusting her treatment as new information becomes available," the center stated.

The center officially identifies the bird as "patient 26-519," though conservationists and fans widely recognize her as Jackie, who is believed to be approximately 5 years old. The eagle was brought to the center after being spotted injured on the ground near Big Bear's Dana Point Park earlier this month. Members of the Los Angeles County San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team retrieved the bird before transferring her to Ojai for treatment.

Jackie's nest life in Big Bear has been monitored 24/7 for several years via a popular nest-cam livestream hosted by Friends of Big Bear Valley, attracting viewers worldwide.

"Millions of people around the world have followed Jackie’s life through the nest cameras," the Ojai Raptor Center said. "They celebrated her victories, worried through her challenges, and ultimately came together to help protect the place she calls home."

Her popularity recently helped inspire a major conservation victory. Last week, officials announced that the land surrounding Jackie's nest above Big Bear Lake was saved from development through private donations, including a $5.5 million gift from Anna and Greg Brockman, the co-founder of OpenAI.

Jackie and her mate, Shadow, expanded their family earlier this year. After losing an initial clutch of eggs to a raven, Jackie laid two more eggs that hatched in April.

The two eaglets—named Luna and Sandy by local elementary students—fledged in late June and are currently thriving in the wild.