New Eagle Appears in Big Bear Nest After Jackie’s Death
A 4½-year-old bald eagle identified as KD1 was observed near Shadow, the surviving mate of the deceased eagle Jackie, prompting speculation about a possible new pairing.
A bald eagle tagged KD1 entered the Big Bear nest that had been shared by the late Jackie and her mate Shadow, according to Friends of Big Bear Valley, the nonprofit that operates the year-round livestream. The organization noted that the younger bird was seen flying into the nest on Thursday, but said it could take months before any breeding behavior is evident, as the season typically begins in the fall or winter.
KD1, banded in April 2022 by the Orange County Water District, carries a lavender leg band with the code “KD1.” The bird is believed to be female, based on its larger size, though experts have not confirmed its sex. If female, KD1 could become a potential mate for Shadow, who is approaching the typical breeding age of five years.
The newcomer was first captured on camera on Aug. 6 while Jackie was receiving treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center. Since then, KD1 has been observed perching near Shadow in several of his favored trees. The nest’s previous eaglets, Sandy and Luna, were last seen on July 23 and are thought to have left the area, a normal “summer vacation” for eagles.
Jackie, a 14-year-old eagle rescued in mid-July, died on Sunday after a prolonged illness that veterinarians could not attribute to a single cause. Her remains will be sent to the National Eagle Repository for distribution to federally recognized tribes.
Friends of Big Bear Valley said the livestream will continue regardless of Shadow’s future decisions, whether he remains with a new partner or relocates.
“We don’t know what [Shadow’s] going to choose,” spokesperson Jenny Voisard said. “He could stay here and take a new mate. He could go someplace else. But the cameras will still be there.”