The majestic bald eagles of Big Bear Lake, cherished by residents and nature lovers, welcomed three eaglets into the world, bringing immense delight to the entire community. The eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow, took turns watching over and feeding the baby birds, which will remain in the nest for about 10 to 14 weeks. The pair, known for their impressive wingspans and powerful presence, have been local celebrities since Jackie’s first appearance in 2016.
All three eggs laid by Jackie and Shadow successfully hatched, marking a triumphant breeding season for the beloved Big Bear bald eagle pair. The first two eaglets hatched on March 3 and 4. The second hatchling arrived around 4:30 a.m. on March 4, according to Sandy Steers, executive director of the Friends of Big Bear Valley. The third eaglet hatched on March 6.
Unfortunately, one of the three eaglets died following a severe winter storm, according to Friends of Big Bear Valley. The promise of one or more eaglets surviving remains a significant and hopeful sign for the community.
“I’m thrilled that they have hatchlings and they have two chicks after two years of no hatching,” Steers said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.
The eagle pair endured many challenges in recent years. In 2023, ravens raided the nest and ate Jackie and Shadow’s eggs. Last winter, the couple faced extreme weather. Jackie laid a special third egg in late January, but freezing temperatures and a powerful storm made conditions difficult. Jackie remained on her nest for 62 hours without a break and was at times buried under snow.
Protecting vulnerable species like bald eagles remains vital. Annalise Wachowiak, freshman theatre major, shared her thoughts on the importance of conservation.
“I think it’s cool; I heard their population is down. They are endangered, are they not?” Wachowiak said.
The bald eagle stands as a remarkable success story under the Endangered Species Act. In the mid-20th century, this national symbol was on the brink of extinction. For many years, bald eagles faced significant threats and were often hunted under the false belief they endangered livestock and salmon populations. Bounties were even offered for their carcasses.
In response, Congress enacted the Bald Eagle Protection Act in 1940. This law made it illegal to kill or disturb bald eagles and prohibited the possession of any parts of the bird, including feathers, eggs and nests. In 2007, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the bald eagle from the endangered species list due to a significant recovery in their population.
Tate Spilmin, freshman sports analytics major, expressed his excitement about the hatchlings and the joy that wildlife brings.
“I think we would all be happy if they hatch. It’s always nice to talk about wild animals, and it’s nice to talk about something wholesome,” Spilmin said.
As the new eaglets grow, the community celebrates their arrival and the legacy they represent. These bald eagles will one day soar high above Big Bear Lake, reminding citizens of the nation’s proud history and the power of preservation for future generations.
