The Viewing of Eagle Chicks in California
We all know how magical nature is, and the story of Jackie and Shadow, a pair of famous bald eagle parents living in San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California, is one of those stories. After a season of great disappointment when two of their eggs were destroyed by crows, 2024 was a special year for them.
Hatching and Life in the Nest
In January, Jackie and Shadow finally laid two new eggs, which successfully hatched on April 4 and 5. This event has caused excitement and enchantment for millions of people who watch their large nest in Big Bear Valley, east of Los Angeles, via a 24-hour live broadcast by the non-profit organization Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV).
Big Bear Bald Eagle Live Nest – Cam 1
According to FOBBV, Jackie and Shadow take turns caring for the chicks and foraging for food at Big Bear Lake. When a storm hit recently, Jackie stood firm to keep the chicks warm until the storm passed.
Normal Behaviors of Chicks
Siblings not only carve out their own space but also already know how to “peck,” a natural behavior where siblings peck and nudge each other during feeding. This rivalry, indicative of natural selection, is usually visible in education of the chicks as they determine the pecking order and who will eat first.
The Important TRACK YOUR and the Education of Chicks
As the chicks grow, the FOBBV team will attempt to determine their sex based on visual characteristics such as size and vocalizations. Details are also awaited on how the chicks will be named and when the naming contest, a tradition usually entrusted to local schoolchildren, will take place.
Adversity and Successes
Jackie and Shadow have had previous chicks together, with their first births in 2018. Despite setbacks in previous years, this year’s success demonstrates the power of nature and the resilience of these birds. It is estimated that only 50% of eagle eggs hatch successfully, although this pair has already beaten the odds.
In the fight for survival, Jackie laid three eggs in 2025, all of which hatched. Despite the harsh weather conditions created by a blizzard, the chicks survived and emerged alive.
Follow the latest developments for Jackie and Shadow by visiting the FOBBV YouTube page, where the life of their chicks continues to be monitored.
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