Supporters of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from the popular Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam, have received a concerning update after the bird's rehabilitation team revealed a setback in her recovery, according to a report by CBS News.
The Ojai Raptor Center, where Jackie has been receiving treatment since being rescued following an attack by two other eagles, said the latest round of blood tests has raised fresh concerns and prompted additional medical investigations.
Blood tests show unexpected decline
In an update shared on Monday, the Ojai Raptor Center said Jackie's newest bloodwork delivered "some difficult news."
While her anemia had shown signs of improvement last week, veterinarians have now found that her packed cell volume (PCV)—a key measure used to assess red blood cell levels—has fallen from 17% to 13%.
CBS News further reported that the rehabilitation team said the decline requires further evaluation as they work to determine the underlying cause of the setback.
Veterinary team expands testing
According to the Ojai Raptor Center, veterinarians have moved quickly to respond to the change in Jackie's condition.
The center said additional advanced diagnostic tests are now underway, while laboratory analyses have been expedited to help specialists better understand her health and decide on the most appropriate course of treatment.
For now, the organization says it does not yet have definitive answers but will continue providing updates as more information becomes available.
Jackie has been away from her nest for more than two weeks
Jackie has been separated from her Big Bear nest and eagle family for a little over two weeks after suffering injuries during a confrontation with two other bald eagles.
She has remained under continuous veterinary care since her rescue as wildlife experts monitor her recovery.
Millions continue following Jackie's story
Jackie and her longtime mate, Shadow, have become two of the most closely watched wild bald eagles in North America thanks to the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam, operated by the nonprofit Friends of Big Bear Valley.
The livestream, launched in 2015 with the help of the late Sandy Steers, gives viewers around the world a close look at the pair's nesting and family life.
Earlier this year, Jackie and Shadow welcomed two eaglets, Sandy and Luna, continuing the eagle family's story that has attracted millions of viewers online, the report notes.
Supporters await the next update
With Jackie's condition now requiring additional medical testing, wildlife supporters are anxiously awaiting further news from the rehabilitation center.
The Ojai Raptor Center has pledged to share meaningful updates as soon as new test results become available, while continuing to provide Jackie with specialised veterinary care during her recovery.
