Southern California bald eagle Shadow was observed perched with a subadult female eagle on Thursday, while his mate Jackie continues to recover at the Ojai Raptor Center. Jackie, who is one of at least nine chicks with Shadow, is in critical condition following an attack by two other eagles in Big Bear Lake.
The Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) reported that Shadow's new companion could potentially be one of the eagles involved in the altercation with Jackie. The Ojai Raptor Center stated that Jackie is suffering from severe anemia and kidney inflammation, and veterinarians believe she was sick prior to the fight.
Jackie is also being treated for other unrelated illnesses. Despite the serious condition of his mate, an expert consulted by FOBBV suggested that Shadow's behavior does not necessarily indicate he has moved on. The expert noted that given the strong bond between Jackie and Shadow, it is unlikely he would seek a new mate until his mating season hormones begin.
Shadow and Jackie gained widespread attention through the FOBBV's 24/7 livestream of bald eagles in the San Bernardino County valley. The pair have been together since 2018.
