Big Bear Bald Eagles: Jackie and Shadow's Love Story

Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear Lake's beloved bald eagles, are more than just residents – they're celebrities. This bonded pair has captivated the hearts of thousands thanks to a live nest cam that offers a glimpse into their fascinating world.

A Storied History

Every winter, bald eagles, drawn by the unfrozen waters teeming with fish, would migrate to Big Bear Lake. But everything changed with the arrival of Ricky and Lucy. This adventurous pair defied the seasonal pattern, choosing Big Bear Lake as their year-round home.

Their arrival marked a turning point. In 2012, a tiny fluff of white emerged from their nest – the first ever bald eagle chick hatched in Big Bear Lake! The chick, initially named Jack, turned out to be a female, earning the new name Jackie. But Jackie's time at Big Bear seemed temporary. She eventually left the region.

Then, a glimmer of hope. A female eagle returned to a nest once used by Ricky and Lucy. Could it be Jackie, back in her birthplace? Though they couldn't be sure without a tag, excitement filled the air. Jackie, if it was her, had found a new mate, Mr. B. Together, they claimed the nest, the very one where now a live camera captured their every move, courtesy of the Friends of Big Bear Valley.

Their attempt at a family resulted in a chick named Stormy, who eventually soared off to explore new horizons. Sadly, Mr. B's reign was short-lived. A newcomer, a mystery eagle without a tag, chased him away. This new arrival, named Shadow, became Jackie's enduring partner.

Over the years, Jackie and Shadow built a life together. Eggs appeared in their nest, but only two chicks, Simba and Spirit, defied the odds and eventually left the valley.

Today, Jackie and Shadow remain, a testament to resilience and the enduring magic of Big Bear Lake. Their story, captured live for the world to see, continues to inspire awe and wonder, a testament to the enduring spirit of these magnificent birds.

Jackie and Shadow are believed to be a mated pair of bald eagles. Bald eagles typically mate for life, so they likely have a strong and cooperative relationship. Here's a breakdown based on what we know:

Jackie and Shadow are a model of cooperation when it comes to raising their young. They work together seamlessly, taking turns incubating eggs and hunting for food to feed their growing chicks. While Jackie, the larger of the two, seems to enjoy being in charge, Shadow is more than eager to share incubation duties, which sometimes leads to disputes between the pair.

What truly captivates viewers is the dynamic between this devoted pair. Their bickering over nest duties, like gentle beak nudges or playful nips, seems to be a way of communicating and negotiating. And their ability to work together demonstrates a strong bond between the pair. It's a reminder that even a mated pair of eagles can have their playful disagreements, but ultimately, they work through them for the good of the family.

Here's how to tell Jackie and Shadow apart:

Size: Jackie is larger than Shadow.

Beak: Jackie's beak is both longer and thicker than Shadow's.