Necropsy reveals avian flu as cause of death for California bald eagle Jackie
A necropsy confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza caused severe stomach ulcer, internal bleeding and bacterial sepsis, leading to the death of the livestreamed bald eagle Jackie in August.
Jackie, a bald eagle that lived in Big Bear Valley, California, died in August after a prolonged illness. A necropsy conducted by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance identified highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) as the primary factor behind her decline. The virus triggered a severe stomach ulcer, resulting in persistent internal bleeding, anemia and a secondary bacterial infection, according to Steve Kubiski, director of disease investigations for the alliance.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife released the report, noting that the findings showed multiple severe and interconnected disease processes that developed over time and ultimately led to Jackie’s death. The agency added that HPAI is circulating widely among wild bird populations in the United States and that raptors can acquire the disease through contact with infected birds or prey.
Jackie, hatched in 2012, was the first eaglet recorded nesting in Big Bear Valley. Her life was broadcast via a webcam installed by a U.S. Forest Service employee, attracting a global audience. She had two mates during her life; the second, Shadow, remains in the area, and officials said there is no evidence of illness among him or their offspring.
Meghan Hertel, director of the wildlife agency, said the case highlights the importance of understanding disease impacts on wildlife and can inform future care and treatment of eagles and other species.