How Jackie met Shadow: The story behind Big Bear’s famous eagles - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Lila Seidman

March 3, 2026

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Jackie and Shadow, a pair of famous bald eagles at Big Bear Lake, rose to internet stardom after their dramatic story of loss and recovery captivated thousands. In late January, their eggs were destroyed by ravens while they were unattended. However, the couple's resilience shone through as they laid new eggs, sparking celebrations among their devoted fans following the livestream. This incident, along with the recent passing of Sandy Steers, the executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, who played a crucial role in managing the nest camera, led to an outpouring of support and reflection. The story of Jackie and Shadow began nearly two decades ago when bald eagles were rare year-round visitors to Big Bear Lake. These majestic birds typically migrated to the area during winter to feed on fish from frozen northern lakes. However, in 2009, a tagged male eagle from Catalina stayed behind, eventually forming a pair with another eagle and establishing a nest that would become a foundation for future generations. Over time, this lineage evolved, with Jackie emerging as a notable figure after hatching in 2012. The couple's unique personalities—Jackie being fierce yet nurturing, and Shadow protective and attentive—helped them stand out among other eagle pairs across the U.S. The significance of Jackie and Shadow lies not only in their ecological role but also in their impact on public engagement with nature. Their popularity, with millions of followers on social media, underscores the power of wildlife conservation to inspire and connect people. The eagles' story

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/3/2026