I’m terribly sad to report the worst case scenario for Jackie (Patient 26-519). On Monday, August 10, 2026, the Ojai Raptor Center’s official message started with…”It is with profound sadness that we share that Patient 26-519 passed away in the early hours of this morning, following more than three weeks of intensive medical care.” They also said their team is heartbroken as is all the followers of the Big Bear Eagle Cam. (Facebook) Their message continued with more details giving a better understanding of what happened, but after all is said and done, it is an extremely bittersweet moment losing this magnificent bald eagle as Jackie and Shadow made a huge impact on the lives of so many people who adored watching the Big Bear Eagle cam the last few years. We witnessed Jackie and Shadow lay their eggs and we waited for the eaglets to emerge. We saw how both parents kept them safe and provided fresh fish from the lake to feed on, and then we watched as their offspring the left the nest.

While Jackie’s passing is heartbreaking, we are reminded it is the circle of life. I find comfort that while Jackie could have been left to drown in the lake or worse, succumb to another attack, she was rescued by kind humans. She was fed and kept safe while the Ojai Raptor Center did their absolute best to treat her.

Also, never forget, the popularity of these eagles helped to raise the $10 million required to purchase the land at Big Bear Lake so developers couldn’t build on it. It will now be preserved for future generations of eagles to come.

I know I’ve shared the YouTube link before, but here it is again. Do note, the nest is empty for the season. Hopefully Shadow will return with a new mate this winter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE

#SoarFreeJackie #RestEasyJackie