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9h ago

Jackie the Big Bear Bald Eagle Back in ICU as Blood Levels Fall Below 10%

Specialized test results will determine whether veterinarians can stabilize her for rehabilitation.

Image
Jackie on her nest above Big Bear Lake on May 14, 2026.
The Ojai Raptor Center, which has been inundated by concerned fans of Jackie the bald eagle, recently shared this AI-created photo purporting to depict the beloved raptor. In addition to caring for Jackie, the raptor center has had to contend with misinformation, fake photos and anger from some members of the public who want more regular updates about the eagle that has captured hearts around the world.
Jackie, the famous bald eagle of Big Bear Lake in Southern California, is pictured at the Ojai Raptor Center where she is being assessed.

Overview

  • The Ojai Raptor Center said Friday that Jackie’s packed cell volume has fallen below 10 percent and she is in critical condition in intensive care receiving oxygen and around-the-clock monitoring.
  • This week veterinarians completed a contrast CT scan and a bone marrow biopsy but key laboratory analyses, including expanded toxicology and heavy-metal testing, are still pending.
  • Earlier care included a life‑saving blood transfusion from a donor eagle named Spirit and ongoing supportive treatments while staff monitor her red blood cell counts daily.
  • Caretakers are working with a national team of specialists to interpret new findings and have urged the public to send encouraging notes while avoiding unsolicited petitions, calls, or misinformation that could disrupt care.
  • Jackie’s case, which began after she was found grounded following a mid‑July altercation near Dana Point Park, could take weeks to months to resolve and has implications for her mate Shadow, their fledglings, and regional conservation efforts.