Jackie the bald eagle remains in critical condition after fight with other eagles

Jackie the Bald Eagle Remains in Critical Condition After Fight with Other Eagles

Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from Big Bear Valley, remains in critical condition after being rescued following an apparent altercation with two subadult eagles. According to the Ojai Raptor Center, where Jackie is currently rehabilitating, initial bloodwork indicates that the eagle is experiencing severe anemia and inflammation affecting the kidneys.

The center said that while Jackie's condition remains critical, she is alert and eating, and has even begun to show signs of her usual feisty personality. Friends of Big Bear Valley, the nonprofit organization that manages the eagle nest cam, reported that Jackie has more energy and "is mad and fighting the staff." The organization added that veterinarians conducted X-rays on Jackie, and no fishing hooks, sinkers, or other metal objects were detected.

The altercation that led to Jackie's injury occurred on July 17, near Dana Point Park, about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles. Cell phone video confirmed that Jackie was able to fend off the other eagles by turning over and using her talons, but was unable to fly far away.

After being stabilized by the San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team, Jackie was transferred to the Ojai Raptor Center, a specialized rehabilitation facility. The center's veterinary team has begun supportive treatment based on the information available, and with guidance from wildlife professionals across the world. However, the center cautioned that wildlife medicine takes time, and some answers simply cannot be rushed.

Rescuers are testing Jackie for levels of zinc, rodenticides, and lead, which are common environmental toxins that can affect eagles. Dr. Todd Katzner, a prominent wildlife biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, noted that environmental toxins are a huge issue plaguing eagles, and that an injury like Jackie's is probably human-associated in the beginning.

Despite the challenges ahead, there is some good news. Dr. Katzner said that Jackie's eaglets, Luna and Sandy, are old enough to fly and fend for themselves with a little help from their dad, Shadow.

The Ojai Raptor Center has asked the public and media not to call, text, or email its emergency hotline, hospital, or administrative offices requesting updates, and instead to follow the center's social media accounts for updates on Jackie's condition.

As the situation continues to unfold, the Big Bear Valley community remains hopeful for Jackie's recovery. The eagle's story has captivated audiences around the world, and her resilience and strength have inspired many.