Who was Jackie? How California bald eagle became an internet sensation

Big Bear beloved Jackie, the bald eagle who became an internet sensation and a symbol of the species’ recovery in California died on Monday.

According to her caretakers, Jackie was being treated for an illness at a veterinary facility for weeks. She was taken under protection by Ojai Raptor Center, a wildlife rehabilitation organisation, after she was attacked by other eagles.

"Over the past several days, her condition continued to deteriorate despite intensive treatment and the combined efforts of our veterinary team and consulting specialists," Ojai Raptor Center issued a statement.

What happened to Jackie?

On July 17, Jackie was found ill after an apparent fight with two other eagles. Moreover, she was also facing some underlying health issues that caused massive weight loss and anaemia. Despite receiving intensive care, her condition ultimately worsened and lost her life this week, leaving behind thousands of people sad and heartbroken.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is currently caring for her remains.

How Jackie, world’s popular bald eagle became an internet sensation?

Jackie became an international internet sensation primarily because her adult life along with natural struggles was broadcast live to the world.

Since 2015, the nonprofit Friends of Big Bear Valley live-streamed Jackie and her mate, Shadow, from their nest near Big Bear Lake. Millions followed her, especially when she sat on her eggs for over 60 hours straight through a 2024 winter storm.

The pair also navigated unviable eggs and aggressive predators who tried to steal and destroy eggs. But when clutches successfully hatched and fledged, millions celebrated their milestones as if they were their achievements.

The followers also admired Jackie because of her distinct personality; she was seen as the dominant and protective matriarch who went to great lengths to protect her nest. On the other hand, Shadow is viewed as a devoted and cooperative father, arranging food for the nest.

Biologists note that Jackie’s story symbolized the broader comeback of bald eagles in California following the 19