Jackie and Shadow's Reign Over Big Bear

Jackie and Shadow are a pair of wild bald eagles residing near Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County, California.Jackie gained public attention in 2017 when she and her mate took over an abandoned nest equipped with a live-stream camera installed by the nonprofit organization Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV).Shadow appeared in 2018, replacing Jackie's previous mate, and the two have been partners since.

Latest Update

As of April 1, 2025, Jackie and Shadow are actively raising two healthy eaglets in their nest in Big Bear Lake. Their 2025 nesting season has been a success, with Jackie laying three eggs in late January. The first eaglet hatched on March 3rd, followed by the second on March 4th. Sadly, the third eaglet hatched later around March 8th but passed away sometime after March 13th due to a winter storm. The remaining two chicks are currently developing rapidly, being diligently fed by both Jackie and Shadow. Viewers of the Big Bear Eagle Cam, operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV), are witnessing the eaglets growing larger, developing their flight feathers, and engaging in behaviors like wing flapping ("wingersizing") in preparation for fledging. Both Jackie and Shadow are actively involved in feeding the chicks, bringing a steady supply of fish and other prey to the nest. They also share duties in guarding the nest and keeping the young eaglets warm and safe. The anticipation among the eagle cam viewers is now focused on the upcoming weeks as the eaglets continue to mature and approach their fledging period, which is expected to occur roughly 12-14 weeks after hatching. FOBBV continues to provide updates and monitor the nest closely through their live streams and social media channels, sharing the remarkable journey of this beloved bald eagle family with the world.

Meet the Royals of Big Bear: Jackie and Shadow

Jackie and Shadow are a bonded pair of adult bald eagles who have made Big Bear Lake their permanent home. Jackie, easily recognizable by her slightly darker plumage and often more assertive demeanor, is the matriarch of this avian family. Shadow, with his slightly lighter head and often calmer presence, is her devoted mate and partner in raising their young.

Why Year-Round Residents?

Unlike many bald eagles that migrate to Big Bear Valley seasonally, Jackie and Shadow are among the few that reside there year-round. Their permanent stay is attributed to the area's favorable conditions, including abundant food sources and suitable nesting sites. The lake teems with fish, a primary food source for bald eagles, and the surrounding forests offer sturdy, tall trees perfect for building and maintaining their massive nest. Their consistent presence allows them to secure their territory and be ready for the crucial breeding season.

The Original Big Bear Eagle Resident

Ricky and Lucy were indeed the first known pair of adult bald eagles to establish a year-round residence and successfully nest in Big Bear Lake. This groundbreaking event occurred in 2012, and their chick, initially named Jack, was later determined to be female and renamed Jackie.

Jackie, the current matriarch, is actually the offspring of the first year-round resident bald eagles in Big Bear Lake.

Jackie and Shadow's Offspring

Since their partnership began, Jackie and Shadow have laid over 14 eggs together, with five hatching successfully. In March 2025, they welcomed three eaglets; however, one of the chicks did not survive a severe winter storm that brought over two feet of snow to the area.

Eagle Lifespan and Their Ages

Jakie was born around 2012 and Shadow around 2014. Bald eagles typically live 20 to 30 years in the wild.

Eagle Mating and Nesting Facts

• When do eagles lay eggs? Between January and March.



• How long does an egg take to hatch? About 35 days.

• How long do eaglets stay in the nest? Approximately 10 to 12 weeks before fledging (learning to fly and leaving the nest).

What Is the Big Bear Eagle Cam?

The Big Bear Eagle Cam is a live-streaming camera set up in 2015 by Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) to monitor local eagles. Installed 145 feet high in a Jeffrey pine tree near Fawnskin, the camera allows nature lovers worldwide to witness the lives of Jackie, Shadow, and their eaglets in real time.

Watch Jackie and Shadow Live:

Big Bear Bald Eagle Live Nest - Cam 1

Jackie and Shadow’s story continues to inspire wildlife enthusiasts, reminding us of the importance of conservation and the beauty of nature in Big Bear Lake.