Jackie and Shadow: The Bald Eagle Couple Braving California’s Storms to Protect Their Future

High in the San Bernardino Mountains of California, a remarkable bald eagle named Jackie has been showing the world what true dedication looks like. Alongside her mate, Shadow, Jackie has been enduring the harsh elements to protect their three precious eggs, bringing hope and inspiration to thousands of people who have been following their journey online.

Jackie, a 12-year-old bald eagle, has made her home in a sturdy pine tree overlooking a vast California valley. From this high perch, she has been shielding her eggs from torrential rains and heavy snowfall, refusing to let the stormy weather deter her from her maternal duties. With her feathers dusted in snow, she has become a symbol of resilience, her story captured and shared by the 24-hour Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam.

This live stream, installed in 2015 and sponsored by Friends of Big Bear Valley, has provided an intimate view into the lives of Jackie and Shadow, offering a front-row seat to their daily struggles and triumphs. The camera has documented their journey as they braved a powerful atmospheric river that recently pummeled California.

The eagle pair has called this nest home since 2013, although it was initially just a winter retreat. Historically, bald eagles like Jackie and Shadow would only visit Big Bear Valley during the colder months, seeking food like fish and waterfowl that were inaccessible in the frozen lakes further north. However, in recent years, the couple has taken up permanent residence in the area, making it their year-round home.

Just two weeks ago, Jackie laid two eggs, and just before the storm hit, she delivered a third. As the snow began to fall, Jackie hunkered down, using her body heat to keep the eggs warm, while Shadow stood by, ready to assist. Together, they took turns sitting on the eggs, a common practice among bald eagle pairs. Both parents develop a brood patch, a featherless spot on their chest, during nesting season. This patch allows them to hold the eggs close to their body heat, ensuring the developing embryos stay warm and safe.

The storm that rocked California brought with it not only heavy rain and snow but also fierce winds that rattled the eagles’ tree. Despite the challenging conditions, Jackie remained steadfast, refusing to leave the nest for long stretches of time. At one point, she sat on the eggs for an incredible 35 hours straight, not even moving as snow piled up on her back. Shadow, ever the dutiful partner, took over whenever Jackie needed a break, carefully turning the eggs with his beak to ensure they were evenly heated.

Watching the eagles’ dedication, Sandy Steers, a biologist and executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, couldn’t help but be moved. “This was the first time Shadow has ever seen three eggs in the nest,” Steers shared. “He kept looking back and forth at them as he stretched his legs around them… but his legs wouldn’t go around all of them when they were side-by-side.” Eventually, Shadow figured out how to position himself over the eggs, a small victory in the ongoing battle against the elements.

For Jackie and Shadow, this is not their first time facing adversity. Last year, the couple laid two eggs, only to lose them when they took too long to hatch. Tragically, the eggs were eaten by ravens, a loss that was broadcast live to the thousands of viewers who had been following their story. Despite this heartbreak, the eagles have not given up, and this year they are trying once again to bring new life into the world.

As February 29 approaches, marking the start of “pip watch” when the eggs are expected to hatch, the anticipation among viewers is growing. But for Jackie and Shadow, this is just another chapter in their ongoing story of survival and love. With each passing day, they continue to demonstrate the strength and determination that makes them one of nature’s most remarkable couples.

In a world where wildlife often goes unseen, Jackie and Shadow have become stars, their lives documented and shared with millions. But even with all the attention, for Jackie, it’s not about the cameras or the fame. It’s about the simple, profound act of being a mother, of protecting her young, and of doing everything in her power to ensure that her chicks have a chance at life.

As the snow melts and the storms pass, Jackie and Shadow remain at their nest, ever watchful, ever hopeful. Their story is a reminder of the resilience of nature, and of the quiet, unwavering courage it takes to face life’s challenges head-on.

The heartwarming tale of the famous bald eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow, who bravely endured torrential rain and heavy snowfall to protect their three precious eggs, capturing the hearts of thousands of concerned Californians.