The Great Return: Jackie and Shadow Begin a New Legacy in the Big Bear Canopy
High above the shimmering expanse of Big Bear Lake, perched within the rugged architecture of a centuries-old Jeffrey Pine, a prehistoric ritual has begun once again. On the afternoon of January 23, 2026, Big Bear’s resident apex pair, the Bald Eagles known as Jackie and Shadow, delivered a moment of pure mountain magic: the first egg of the 2026 season.
For those of us living the mountain life at 6,750 feet, this isn’t just a biological milestone; it’s the heartbeat of our community. While the world watches via high-definition lens, we feel the arrival in the crisp, mountain air. At Destination Big Bear we couldn’t be more stoked to share this journey with you.
Update 1/26/2026 @ 17:11 PM PST :- We have a second eagle egg for Big Bear eagles Jackie and Shadow!
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A Masterclass in Resilience
There is a profound, cinematic dignity in how Jackie and Shadow manage their nest. Watching Jackie “pancake”, settling her brood patch over that precious calcium shells, while the mountain winds howl is a masterclass in avian endurance. Shadow, the quintessential mountain dad, has been busy “nest-decorating,” bringing in massive sticks and soft fluff to ensure the 2026 nursery is up to code.
This year’s arrival marks a new chapter in a saga that has captivated millions. For visitors staying in our lakefront Big Bear cabins, it’s a reminder that when you’re here, you aren't just a tourist; you’re a guest in one of the most vibrant ecosystems in the San Bernardino National Forest.
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Join the 2026 “Pip Watch”
The countdown is on. With roughly 35 days of incubation ahead, we are officially on “Pip Watch” for late February. There is no better time to head up the mountain, breathe in the pine-scented air, and witness the majesty of the San Bernardino National Forest for yourself.
Looking Back at 2025 : The Legend of Sunny and Gizmo
To understand the weight of these new eggs, we have to look back at the giants whose wings paved the way. Last year, the nest was a theater of triumph as we watched Sunny and Gizmo grow from fragile hatchlings into soaring symbols of the wild.
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The 2025 Hatch: We remember the tense “pip watch” as the first cracks appeared in the frost-covered shells.
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The Growth: From the “wobbly-neck” phase to the fierce competition for trout, Jackie and Shadow proved their mettle as the ultimate power couple.
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The Fledge: Watching those youngsters take their first leap toward the lake last summer was a moment of collective pride for all of Big Bear Valley.
By weaving this history into the 2026 season, we see the continuity of life in the San Bernardino Mountains. Each egg is a bridge between the legends of the past and the future of our forest.
2025 FOBBV Eagle Cam of Sunny and Gizmo:
The past few days have been filled with precious moments as Jackie and Shadow take turns feeding their newly hatched chicks, ensuring they stay full and content. The little ones may be wobbly on their feet, but they’re already showing signs of strength as they try their best to eat, filling their tiny crops and growing stronger each day.
Big Bear Bald Eagles – The Family Making National News
The Big Bear Eagles Nest Watch is a volunteer citizen science program that monitors pairs of Bald Eagles in the San Bernardino National Forest, including Big Bear Lake. The nest has been active since 2001.
During the breeding season (November through March), we are able to monitor as many as six different nests near Big Bear Lake. Climate change is threatening these species' survival at every level from population genetics to behavior, physiology, and migration patterns — anything that will affect the ability of these species to adapt to climate change.
The Eagles Nest Watch is a popular winter attraction in Big Bear. Located at the top of the mountain, this lookout provides stunning panoramic views of Big Bear Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Citizen Science in Our Backyard
The Big Bear Eagles Nest Watch, powered by the Friends of Big Bear Valley, remains one of the premier citizen-science projects in the nation. This 24/7 window into the wild allows us to witness how these majestic birds navigate the complexities of climate change and habitat preservation.
Mountain Etiquette: While the urge to get a closer look is real, the nest area is strictly closed to the public to protect the pair. The best “blind” for observation? Your private balcony in a Big Bear vacation rental, equipped with a pair of binoculars and a steaming mug of coffee.
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January 26, 2026 Updated 5:12 PM
