Jackie, the beloved bald eagle in Southern California, is currently unstable and remains critically ill, according to her care team at the Ojai Raptor Center.
Health Crisis
The eagle’s health crisis, which first emerged after she was rescued following an altercation with two subadult eagles on July 17, has drawn concern from millions of fans. Extensive testing has ruled out several possible causes, including lead poisoning, cancer, and metal objects such as fishing hooks.
The center has described the case as complex and is being closely evaluated by a collaborative team that includes nine veterinarians, together with representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Jackie received a life-saving blood transfusion from another eagle on July 20 and underwent oxygen therapy as part of her treatment. She also received treatment for rodenticide toxicity, which occurs when humans or non-target animals ingest rat or mouse poisons, though caregivers do not believe that is the primary cause of her illness.
Family Update
Friends of Big Bear Valley, which manages the popular nest cam, said Jackie’s ill health marks a season of uncertainty for the beloved eagle family. Jackie’s partner, Shadow, is on his summer vacation and has been seen on camera occasionally.
A new young female, believed to have attacked Jackie before her hospitalization, was seen perched with Shadow. Many on social media have nicknamed the new eagle Jolene after the Dolly Parton song. However, experts believe Shadow isn’t likely to be ready to move on from his life with Jackie, as the pair have been together for nearly a decade and have shared eight eaglets.
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
