The world has once again turned its attention to the San Bernardino Mountains, where the beloved bald eagle pair, Jackie and Shadow, made headlines during the 2025 nesting season. These iconic Big Bear bald eagles have become internet sensations, thanks to a 24/7 live cam that broadcasts their nesting activities from Southern California.
As viewers tuned in from around the world, Jackie laid three eggs in late January—on the 25th, 28th, and 31st. The Big Bear bald eagle cam, operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley, quickly became a viral hit as people eagerly waited for the eggs to hatch.
Two Chicks Successfully Hatch
In early March, viewers celebrated as two of the eggs successfully hatched. The healthy eaglets brought joy and relief to eagle enthusiasts, many of whom had followed the couple for years. The chicks were later named “Sunny” and “Gizmo” by local school children, further endearing them to the public.
This success was particularly meaningful as Jackie and Shadow had experienced heartbreak in previous years. In 2024, none of their eggs hatched, despite their diligent efforts.
Concern Over the Third Egg
Despite the happy news, not everything went as hoped. The third egg did not hatch during the expected window, raising concerns among biologists and fans. Many believe the egg may have been infertile or lost viability due to harsh weather conditions. Some viewers even feared it was lost during a snowstorm that hit the Big Bear region in mid-March.
Although the fate of the third egg remains uncertain, experts remind viewers that this outcome is not unusual in wild bird nests. “It’s part of nature,” said one wildlife expert. “Not all eggs hatch, and Jackie and Shadow are doing the best any eagle parents can.”
Why the Big Bear Bald Eagles Are So Popular
The popularity of Jackie and Shadow stems from more than just the novelty of watching bald eagles in real time. Their story is one of perseverance, love, and resilience in the wild. Their nest, perched high above Big Bear Lake, offers a glimpse into the daily life of America’s national bird.
The Big Bear eagle cam has attracted millions of views and thousands of dedicated followers on social media. Fans often share clips, updates, and even live reactions as the eagles care for their young, shield them from storms, or bring fish back to the nest.
A Lesson in Wildlife Education
More than entertainment, the Big Bear bald eagle livestream serves as an educational tool. Schools across the U.S. use it to teach students about biology, ecology, and conservation. Organizations like Friends of Big Bear Valley continue to promote awareness about protecting natural habitats and the importance of coexisting with wildlife.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 nesting season of Jackie and Shadow has once again captivated the public, reminding us of nature’s beauty—and unpredictability. With two healthy chicks thriving in the nest, hope remains strong for their future.
As for the third egg, while it may not hatch, it has already played a role in educating and uniting people around the world through the power of nature and technology.
Fun Fact: Bald eagles usually lay 1–3 eggs per season, and not all of them hatch. Survival is never guaranteed, especially in the wild.
Internal Link: Signs of a Healthy Pet – How to Monitor Animal Well-being
External Link: Watch the Big Bear Eagle Cam Live
