Big Bear Bald Eagles: Live Bald Eagle Cam
Tune into the live Bald Eagle Cam to watch nesting bald eagles in real time as they care for their young in a protected lakeside habitat.
Are there Bald eagles in Big Bear Lake?
Yes. Big Bear Lake is home to one resident bald eagle pair — Jackie and Shadow — who nest here year-round and star on the live Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam. During winter (Dec–March), migrating bald eagles also visit the lake, making this one of the best places in Southern California to watch these majestic birds.
Are There Bald Eagles in Big Bear Lake?
Yes — bald eagles can be seen in Big Bear Lake, especially during the winter and early spring. The area provides ideal habitat, with abundant fish in the lake and large trees for nesting. In recent years, the local bald eagle population has grown, and sightings have become more frequent. Big Bear is one of the best places in Southern California to view these magnificent birds.
When Is the Best Time to See Bald Eagles in Big Bear?
The best time to see bald eagles in Big Bear Lake is December through March, during their winter migration and breeding season. Some resident bald eagles — like the well-known pair Jackie and Shadow — are present year-round. But sightings are most common in winter, when both resident and visiting eagles are hunting around the lake.
Can You Watch Big Bear Bald Eagles Live Online?
Yes — you can watch Big Bear bald eagles live on the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam. The camera is operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley and streams live footage from a wild eagle nest. The resident eagle pair, Jackie and Shadow, are often seen nesting, laying eggs, and raising chicks — all viewable in real time from anywhere in the world.
Where Is the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam Located?
The Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam is located on the north side of Big Bear Lake, in a protected nesting area of the San Bernardino National Forest. To protect the eagles and their nest, the exact location is kept private and closed to public access. However, you can watch all the activity through the live-streaming cam — one of the most popular wildlife cams in California.
Who Are Jackie and Shadow, the Big Bear Bald Eagles?
Jackie and Shadow are the resident bald eagle pair nesting in Big Bear Lake — they’ve become local celebrities thanks to the live eagle cam. Each winter, viewers around the world tune in to watch their nest-building, egg-laying, and chick-raising activities. Their nest has successfully fledged several young bald eagles, helping the species recover in Southern California.
What Is Friends of Big Bear Valley?
Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) is a local nonprofit group dedicated to protecting the wildlife and habitat of the Big Bear Valley. They operate the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam and work to educate the public about the importance of conservation. They also help protect nesting areas and monitor bald eagle activity in the region.
How Many Bald Eagles Are in Big Bear Lake?
The number of bald eagles in Big Bear varies seasonally. In winter, dozens of migrating eagles may visit the lake. The area also supports year-round resident pair — Jackie and Shadow — that nest and raise young here each year. Thanks to conservation efforts, bald eagle numbers in Big Bear have increased significantly over the past decade.
Where Can You See Bald Eagles in Big Bear Lake?
While the eagle nest itself is closed to visitors, you can often spot bald eagles around the lake in winter, especially at:
- Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve
- Boulder Bay Park
- North Shore Drive viewpoints
- Grout Bay
- Big Bear Discovery Center (offers guided eagle-watching tours)
Bring binoculars, and visit during the early morning or late afternoon — eagles are often seen fishing or perched near the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Big Bear Lake is one of Southern California’s best spots to view bald eagles — thanks to a thriving winter population and one very famous local eagle pair. Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear’s only known year-round resident bald eagles, nest high in the trees above the lake and can be watched live on the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam. Each winter, dozens of migrating eagles also visit the lake, making it a prime destination for eagle watching and nature lovers.
Are there bald eagles in Big Bear?
Yes — Big Bear Lake is home to one resident pair, Jackie and Shadow, plus many migrating bald eagles in winter.
What is the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam?
A 24/7 live-streaming camera showing Jackie and Shadow at their nest — run by Friends of Big Bear Valley.
When is the best time to see bald eagles in Big Bear?
From December through March — during winter migration and breeding season.
Where can you watch bald eagles in Big Bear?
Online via the Eagle Cam, or in person at viewing areas like Stanfield Marsh and Grout Bay (bring binoculars!).
How many bald eagles live in Big Bear?
One year-round pair — Jackie and Shadow — plus dozens of visiting eagles in peak season.
