It’s here! Jackie and Shadow lay first egg of the season

Local Bald Eagle Duo Welcomes First Egg of the Season, Rekindling Hope

In a heartening moment for nature enthusiasts across the region, Mama Jackie, one of Big Bear’s beloved bald eagle duo, welcomed the season’s first egg into their nest Wednesday evening, streaming live for thousands of eager viewers.

The momentous event was met with joy and relief, given the couple’s recent history of heartbreak. Last January, Jackie and Shadow laid three eggs, butUnfortunately, none hatched, mirroring their misfortune from the previous year when two eggs didn’t develop.

Why the wait and what now?

Jackie laid the egg around 5 p.m., after demonstrating signs of labor earlier in the day, according to Friends of Big Bear Valley. Bald eagles typically lay an average of two eggs, a process known as a clutch. They also practice delayed incubation, meaning Jackie may remain perched on the nest even if you don’t see her warming the eggs right away. This is simply nature’s way.

As optimism persists, let’s enjoy this promising news alongside local wildlife lovers, eagerly awaiting further developments in the breathtaking life story of Jackie, Shadow, and—hopefully—their new arrival(s).