Jackie, a famous bald eagle from Big Bear Lake in California who captured the hearts of thousands of online viewers, died on Monday at the age of 14.
The beloved bird had been receiving care at the Ojai Raptor Center since mid-July. Rescuers found her weak and unable to fly after a fight with two younger eagles. Medical tests revealed that Jackie was suffering from severe anemia and weight loss caused by an underlying illness. Despite intensive treatments and tests by wildlife specialists, her condition continued to worsen over several days.
Jackie became an internet star through the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam, operated by the non-profit organization Friends of Big Bear Valley. Viewers first watched the nest in 2015, and Jackie began sharing it with her mate, Shadow, in 2018. Over the years, people around the world watched the pair build their lives together, defend their nest, and raise fluffy hatchlings.
Jackie’s story also inspired a major environmental effort. Local supporters and donors raised $10 million to buy 63 acres of land around the nest to protect the eagles' natural habitat from land development.
Veterinary staff and fans around the world expressed deep sadness over Jackie's death. Wildlife officials are conducting further tests to learn more about her illness, while supporters celebrate her legacy of bringing people together for nature conservation.