Bald Eagles Big Bear: Jackie and Shadow Welcome New Eaglets!

Big Bear Bald Eagles: Jackie and Shadow Expand Their Family!

Exciting news for wildlife enthusiasts! The beloved bald eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow, residing in Big Bear, California, have welcomed two new eaglets into the world. The hatchings, which occurred over the weekend, mark another heartwarming chapter in the lives of these majestic birds.

The Hatching Process

The first eaglet broke free from its shell around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, as reported by Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV). FOBBV clarified that a chick isn’t officially hatched until completely clear of the eggshell. A Facebook post joyfully announced, “The chick has popped its head out of the shell to say a happy hatch day to mom and dad!” Adding to the excitement, the second egg also showed signs of pipping – the initial cracking of the shell.

Prior to the first hatching, video footage captured the tiny chirps of the developing eaglet within the egg, offering a glimpse into the miracle of life. FOBBV explained that the complete hatching process can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours after the initial pip.

A Second Eaglet Arrives

Just twelve hours after its sibling, the second eaglet hatched shortly before 9 a.m. on Sunday. FOBBV confirmed the arrival, and the live stream showed one of the proud parents carefully covering the eaglets to shield them from the morning sunshine.

A History of Parenthood

Jackie and Shadow have captivated audiences for years thanks to the nest camera set up by FOBBV, providing a 24/7 view into their lives. This dedicated couple has successfully raised eaglets in 2019, 2022, and 2025, with Sunny and Gizmo being their previous offspring.

Challenges Overcome

This season wasn’t without its challenges. The couple initially had four eggs, but unfortunately, two were lost due to a raven raid on their nest. Undeterred, Jackie laid a second clutch of eggs on February 24th and 27th, demonstrating remarkable resilience.

What is a ‘Pip’?

According to FOBBV, a ‘pip’ is the crucial moment when the chick breaks through the internal membrane, breaches the eggshell, and takes its first breath of air. It’s a significant milestone in the hatching process.

Growth and Development

Once fully hatched, these eaglets will experience rapid growth, reaching up to three feet in height in just over two months. Follow their journey and witness the wonders of nature unfold!

Learn More

For more information and to watch the live stream, visit the Friends of Big Bear Valley website. You can also find updates on their Facebook page.

Related: Read about the legacy of Sandy Steers, the Big Bear wildlife activist who spearheaded the eagle nest cam.