Farewell Jackie: Big Bear Bald Eagle Dies After Prolonged Illness; Remains Headed to National Eagle Repository
California’s Big Bear bald eagle Jackie died Aug. 9 after weeks of treatment for anemia and kidney inflammation, with new details revealing a large blood clot in her wing and kidney, plus liver and lung abnormalities and poor bone marrow response. She underwent extensive testing, including CT scans and a bone marrow biopsy, but could not keep food down in the final days. A necropsy will be performed by veterinary pathologists in the San Diego Wildlife Alliance, and, per federal law, her remains will be sent to the National Eagle Repository in Colorado for distribution to enrolled tribes and educational use. Shadow’s future remains uncertain as the nest scene continues to evolve with visiting eagles around the territory.