What’s Up With These Birds?

If you’ve spent any time in Big Bear Lake lately, you’ve probably heard the chatter about two of the most famous locals in town: Jackie and Shadow, our resident bald eagles.

These two aren’t just birds. They’re local celebrities with feathers.

The Current Scoop on Jackie & Shadow

Jackie and Shadow have been holding it down at their nest high in the pines, continuing the annual ritual that’s captured the attention of thousands (thanks in part to those wildly popular live nest cams). This season has been another reminder that nature doesn’t always follow a script, but that’s part of what keeps everyone watching.

As of now, the pair is active, bonded, and doing what bald eagles do best: maintaining their territory, tending to the nest, and keeping a watchful eye over Big Bear. While not every nesting season results in eaglets, Jackie and Shadow continue to show strong pair behavior—flying together, calling out across the lake, and reinforcing their claim on one of the most prime pieces of real estate in the San Bernardino Mountains.

In short: they’re doing just fine. And they’re still very much the power couple of the forest.

Local Sightings (Yes, Really)

It’s not uncommon for locals and visitors to spot Jackie and Shadow soaring far beyond their nest territory. They’ve been seen gliding over the lake, circling the village, and every now and then, making a pass over the historic Knickerbocker Mansion.

There’s something a little surreal about it. You’re standing near a century-old mountain lodge, coffee in hand, and suddenly a bald eagle cruises overhead like it owns the place (which, let’s be honest, it kind of does).

Why Everyone’s So Obsessed

Part of the fascination is simple: bald eagles were once on the brink, and now they’re thriving again in places like Big Bear. But Jackie and Shadow have taken it a step further, they’ve made people care.

Families check in on them daily. Locals swap sighting stories. Visitors plan trips hoping to catch a glimpse. It’s wildlife, but it feels personal.

So… What’s Up With These Birds?

They’re wild. They’re resilient. They’re unpredictable.

And they’re a reminder that even in a place as built-up and busy as Big Bear can get, nature is still very much in charge.

So next time you’re near the lake, or better yet, relaxing around the grounds of the Knickerbocker, look up.

You might just see them.