Officials, conservationists mourn Jackie, Big Bear's beloved bald eagle

Jackie, the bald eagle who turned a Fawnskin nest into a global phenomenon, died on August 9, 2026, after receiving treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center in Ventura County[1]. In the days since, elected officials, wildlife agencies, and first responders have joined the worldwide community of fans in mourning the eagle affectionately known as the "Queen" of Big Bear Lake.

Jackie was the mate of Shadow and the mother of eaglets Sandy and Luna, and her nest — perched in the San Bernardino Mountains above Fawnskin — was watched around the clock by fans worldwide through a live camera maintained by Friends of Big Bear Valley[1]. For years, viewers followed her through the full arc of eagle life: courtship, lost eggs, new hatchlings, and fierce storms. Her death has prompted an outpouring that few local wildlife stories have ever matched.

Elected officials speak out

Gov. Gavin Newsom called Jackie "a reminder of the beauty and wonder of California's wildlife, and our shared responsibility to protect the habitats that sustain it"[1]. Sen. Adam Schiff noted that his Washington, D.C., office had streamed the nest cam on a monitor alongside C-SPAN and national news[1]. Rep. Jay Obernolte said Jackie "inspired people across our community and around the world to appreciate and protect our incredible wildlife"[1], and San Bernardino County Supervisor Dawn Rowe said simply that Big Bear "won't be quite the same without Jackie"[1].

Sen. Tony Strickland announced he intends to introduce a Senate Resolution to formally commemorate Jackie and acknowledge her impact[1].

Conservation community reflects

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Meghan Hertel said Jackie's story "inspired deep care in people and a broader understanding of why conservation matters," adding that the lessons she gave "won't be forgotten"[1]. Paul Souza, Pacific Southwest regional director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, said her story captured national attention and helped foster a deeper public connection with wildlife[1].

San Bernardino County Fire, which was first on scene when Jackie was found injured, said its firefighters were "honored to play a small part in helping Jackie receive veterinary care" and described the public response as inspiring[1].

What's next

Friends of Big Bear Valley — the organization that operated the nest cam and was most closely associated with Jackie's story — had not issued a public statement at the time this story was published; Big Bear News is seeking comment from them directly. Sen. Strickland's Senate Resolution has not yet been formally introduced, and no date has been set. Fans wishing to follow updates on Shadow, Sandy, and Luna can monitor the Friends of Big Bear Valley nest cam and social channels.