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Jackie the Big Bear Bald Eagle Suffers Setback as Anemia Deepens

Veterinarians have started expanded diagnostic testing with expedited laboratory analysis to identify the cause of her worsening blood condition.

Overview

  • New bloodwork on Monday showed Jackie’s packed cell volume fell to 13 percent, indicating a decline in red blood cells and a worsening of her anemia.
  • The Ojai Raptor Center has opened additional advanced diagnostic tests and requested expedited lab results while continuing intensive supportive care for the eagle.
  • Earlier treatment included a life-saving blood transfusion from Spirit, a female eagle at CALM Zoo, which temporarily raised Jackie’s red blood counts and allowed her to leave the ICU.
  • So far veterinarians have ruled out lead and zinc poisoning, the fungal infection aspergillosis, rodenticide toxicosis, and renal disease, leaving the underlying cause unexplained.
  • Jackie is a livestream-famous raptor whose illness has spurred broad public support, but clinicians say the prognosis is uncertain and recovery could take weeks to months.