Local Wildlife in Big Bear Lake

Explore Big Bear Lake’s bald eagles, black bears, marsh wildlife, alpine birds, and the best places to experience nature safely and responsibly.

Popular Wildlife

What Wildlife Can You See in Big Bear?

Big Bear Lake is home to a diverse range of wildlife. These are some of the most commonly seen species throughout the year.

Bald Eagles

Bald Eagles

Big Bear is one of the best places in Southern California to see bald eagles, especially in the winter.

Black Bears

Black Bears

Black bears are the only bears in Big Bear. They are generally shy and most active at dawn and dusk.

Coyotes

Coyotes

Coyotes are common throughout Big Bear and play an important role in the local ecosystem.

Mountain Lions

Mountain Lions

Elusive and rarely seen, mountain lions live in remote areas across the San Bernardino Mountains.

Marsh Birds

Marsh Birds

Stanfield Marsh and other wetlands attract herons, ducks, geese, and many other bird species.

Wildlife Viewing

Best Places to Experience Wildlife

You don't need to venture deep into the forest to experience Big Bear's wildlife. These accessible public locations offer some of the best opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife sightings and enjoying Big Bear's natural habitats.

Stanfield Marsh

Stanfield Marsh

One of Big Bear's best birdwatching locations, with marsh habitat, open lake views and opportunities to spot waterfowl, raptors and bald eagles in flight.

Alpine Pedal Path

Alpine Pedal Path

This paved north-shore trail passes through forest and lakefront habitat where visitors may encounter squirrels, birds, deer and other wildlife along the way.

Discovery Center

Discovery Center

Learn about the San Bernardino National Forest, local wildlife and current recreation conditions while exploring trails and natural areas around the Discovery Center.

More About Wildlife

Learn More About Local wildlife

These guides help visitors better understand the animals, habitats, and wildlife experiences that make Big Bear unique.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

See rehabilitated local wildlife up close and learn their conservation stories.

Bears in Big Bear

Bears in Big Bear

Learn why Big Bear is home exclusively to black bears.

Local Wildlife Tips

What Visitors Should Know

A few simple steps help keep you, wildlife, and our community safe.

Residential Areas

Wildlife regularly moves through Big Bear neighborhoods, especially near forest edges and quieter streets at night.

Keep Pets Close

Coyotes are common throughout Big Bear and can target small pets, especially around dawn and dusk.

Give Wildlife Space

Never approach wildlife for photos. Stay calm, keep your distance, and allow animals a clear path to leave.

Faqs

Common Questions

  • What wildlife lives in Big Bear Lake?

    Big Bear Lake is home to black bears, coyotes, bobcats, deer, bald eagles, mountain lions, squirrels, foxes, and a wide variety of alpine birds. Wildlife sightings vary by season, location, weather, and time of day.

  • Are there bears in Big Bear Lake?

    Yes — Big Bear is home to American black bears. Despite the town’s name, there are no grizzly or brown bears living in the area. Black bears are generally shy and usually avoid people, but visitors should always secure food, trash, and scented items.

  • Can you see bald eagles in Big Bear year-round?

    Yes. Bald eagles can be seen around Big Bear Lake throughout the year, although sightings are never guaranteed. Eagle activity becomes especially interesting from late fall through spring as nesting behavior increases and migratory bald eagles may also be present in the San Bernardino Mountains.


    Want to look for one yourself? See our guide to where to spot bald eagles in Big Bear Lake.

  • What should you do if you encounter wildlife in Big Bear?

    Never approach or feed wildlife. Stay calm, give animals space, keep dogs leashed, and allow the animal a clear path to leave the area. Visitors should also avoid leaving food, trash, or coolers unattended, especially near trails and campgrounds.

  • Who are the bald eagles at the Big Bear nest now?

    Following Jackie's death in August 2026, Shadow continues to be seen throughout the Big Bear nest territory. A younger banded bald eagle known as Kaydee (KD1) has also become a regular presence around Shadow and the nest. The two have been observed spending time together, but it is not yet known whether they will form a pair bond.


    Meet Kaydee (KD1) →

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