Big Bear bald eagle Jackie remains in critical condition after rescue

Jackie, a bald eagle found grounded near Big Bear Lake, is being treated at the Ojai Raptor Center in critical condition. Veterinarians say the bird is alert and eating but suffers from severe anemia and kidney inflammation, and they are awaiting test results for zinc, rodenticide and lead exposure. X-rays showed no metal objects such as fishing hooks or sinkers.

The eagles’ caretakers noted that Jackie appeared weak when a couple, Duke and Anne Blackwood, discovered her after she fought two younger eagles. The Blackwoods called the San Bernardino County Fire Department, which coordinated with the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation’s San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team to transport the bird to the center.

Dr. Todd Katzner, a wildlife biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, said that injury or toxin exposure, including lead poisoning, could explain Jackie’s inability to fly. He emphasized that such health issues often stem from human-related environmental factors.

Jackie’s two eaglets, Sandy and Luna, have fledged and are being cared for by their father, Shadow, while the rescue team monitors their development. The center indicated that recovery could take weeks or longer, and outcomes cannot yet be predicted.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about contaminant exposure in raptors, with studies showing a significant proportion of bald and golden eagles test positive for lead and rodenticide residues.