Big Bear Valley wildlife officials announced Tuesday that Jackie, the iconic bald eagle who captured the hearts of viewers worldwide through live‑streamed nest cams, died on August 10, 2026 from complications of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The California Department of Fish and Wildlife released the necropsy findings, which detail a rare presentation of the virus that led to a severe ulcer in the bird’s stomach, persistent internal bleeding, anemia and bacterial sepsis.
Necropsy findings
Steve Kubiski, Director of Disease Investigations for the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, explained that the HPAI infection was the primary underlying cause of Jackie’s decline. “In an uncommon presentation of the virus, the infection caused a severe ulcer in her stomach that led to persistent internal bleeding, anemia, and the development of bacterial sepsis,” Kubiski said in the report.
The necropsy also revealed chronic disease involving the ventriculus, the muscular portion of a bird’s stomach commonly called the gizzard. Toxicology screening detected brodifacoum, an anticoagulant rodenticide, in Jackie’s liver, along with persistent environmental contaminants.
Jackie’s life and legacy
Jackie had nested in the Big Bear area for several years, sharing a high‑up Jeffrey pine tree near Big Bear Lake with her mate, Shadow. Together they raised eaglets, including Sandy and Luna, who remain in the valley. The pair’s nest, perched more than 7,000 feet above sea level, became a popular destination for bird‑watchers and families following the live stream that documented their daily routines, courtship displays and the challenges of raising chicks in harsh mountain weather.
“Jackie’s story brought unprecedented public attention to bald eagles and the importance of protecting the habitats they depend on,” the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said. “Her life and the public’s connection to her highlights the powerful role that wildlife can play in connecting people to conservation.”
Impact on local wildlife monitoring
The discovery of HPAI in a high‑profile eagle underscores the ongoing risk of avian influenza to wild bird populations across the western United States. State wildlife biologists are intensifying surveillance efforts, testing additional raptors and waterfowl for the virus, and urging landowners to limit feeding of wild birds to reduce disease spread.
Officials also noted the detection of brodifacoum, a rodenticide commonly used in pest control, raising concerns about secondary poisoning of predatory birds. The CDFW is reviewing current rodenticide usage guidelines and will consider outreach to hunters and property owners about safer alternatives.
Future for Shadow and the eaglets
Shadow remains in the Big Bear area, and wildlife officials report no evidence that he or the eaglets, Sandy and Luna, are ill. Ongoing monitoring will continue to ensure the health of the remaining family members and to assess any lingering effects of the virus or toxin exposure.
Jackie’s legacy lives on through the thousands who followed her story, inspiring renewed interest in raptor conservation and the protection of California’s mountainous habitats.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
