Ojai Raptor Center reports bald eagle Jackie remains critically ill and unstable

The Ojai Raptor Center announced on Sunday that the rescued bald eagle known as Jackie remains in critical condition and is "currently unstable," after her packed cell volume fell below 6% on Aug. 8 and rose to 9% on Aug. 9. The center said the bird's condition continues to be "extremely serious."

Jackie was taken to the center after an altercation with two subadult eagles on July 17, when she was found grounded near Dana Point Park. Initial bloodwork indicated severe anemia and kidney inflammation, prompting supportive treatment and a blood transfusion from another eagle on July 20, as well as oxygen therapy and treatment for rodenticide toxicity.

Extensive testing has ruled out lead poisoning, cancer and foreign metal objects, but the case remains complex. The care team includes nine veterinarians and representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, who are closely evaluating her condition.

Friends of Big Bear Valley, which operates the nest cam that featured Jackie, noted that the season is uncertain for the eagle family. Jackie’s partner, Shadow, continues to appear on the cam intermittently, while a new young female eagle observed with Shadow has been nicknamed "Jolene" by observers.

The raptor center has also warned against harassment and misinformation about Jackie’s health.