Jackie the beloved bald eagle of Big Bear Lake in California has died at the age of 14. The Ojai Raptor Center announced that she passed away in the early hours of Monday after more than three weeks of intensive care. For over a decade Jackie and her mate Shadow drew millions of viewers worldwide through a continuous livestream of their nest high in the San Bernardino Mountains.
People watched them raise chicks through storms and seasons finding comfort and wonder in the daily rhythms of the pair. In mid July Jackie was found on the ground near the lake unable to fly after a confrontation with two younger eagles. Rescuers took her to the center where veterinarians discovered severe anemia and other complications. She received a blood transfusion oxygen therapy and constant monitoring yet her condition continued to worsen.
The underlying cause of her illness remained unclear despite extensive tests. Her caretakers expressed deep sorrow noting the privilege of caring for her and the many people around the world who followed her story and hoped for her recovery. Jackie leaves behind Shadow and a lasting place in the hearts of those who found inspiration in her strength and devotion as a parent.
