Jackie the Big Bear bald eagle shows signs of recovery after critical setback, but mystery illness remains unsolved

Jackie, the beloved Big Bear bald eagle receiving intensive treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center, has shown fresh signs of improvement after suffering a setback over the weekend, although veterinarians say she remains in critical condition as they continue searching for the cause of her life-threatening illness.

The Ojai Raptor Center, on Monday, July 27, shared an update on Bald Eagle patient 26-519, believed to be the well-known female bald eagle from Big Bear Lake, saying she remains in intensive care and continues to receive round-the-clock supportive treatments.

According to the rehabilitation center, Jackie experienced both encouraging progress and a temporary decline over the past several days.


After responding positively to a life-saving blood transfusion last week, her condition worsened on Saturday when her blood values dropped again.

“After showing encouraging improvement following her blood transfusion, she experienced a setback on Saturday when her blood values declined again,” the Ojai Raptor Center said.

Since then, however, Jackie has once again begun improving. Veterinarians reported that she is now eating independently, her energy and alertness have noticeably increased, and she has become “much more feisty” during feedings, an encouraging sign of recovery.


One of the most significant improvements involves her packed cell volume (PCV), a measurement that indicates the percentage of red blood cells in the bloodstream.

According to the Ojai Raptor Center, Jackie’s PCV has increased from 8% before the weekend to 16% as of Monday (July 27). Although still below the normal range, the center described the increase as an encouraging development and said her bloodwork will continue to be monitored daily.

Despite extensive testing and consultations with experienced wildlife veterinarians, the team has not yet determined what caused Jackie’s severe anemia.

“Despite extensive diagnostic testing and consultation with experienced wildlife veterinarians, we still do not have a definitive diagnosis. Cases like this can be incredibly complex, and we will continue adjusting her treatment as new information becomes available.”

Jackie remains on several prophylactic treatments designed to support her body while specialists continue investigating the underlying cause of her illness.

Earlier this month, the Ojai Raptor Center revealed that Jackie underwent a life-saving blood transfusion made possible by Spirit, a resident bald eagle at the California Living Museum (CALM Zoo) in Bakersfield. Previous examinations ruled out lead poisoning as well as foreign objects such as fishing hooks, fishing line, and weights, allowing veterinarians to focus on other possible causes of her severe anemia.

The rehabilitation center also thanked supporters for the thousands of messages received since Jackie was rescued and asked the public to avoid contacting or visiting the facility so staff can remain focused on her treatment. “Thank you for the thousands of messages of encouragement and continued support.”

The organization added, “Because minimizing stress is an important part of the recovery process, we kindly ask that you give our veterinary and rehabilitation teams the time and space they need to focus on patient care. Please refrain from calling, texting, emailing, or visiting our facility for updates. We promise to continue sharing meaningful updates through our official social media channels as soon as new information becomes available.”

It concluded by thanking supporters for following Jackie's recovery journey. “Thank you for following her story and supporting the work that makes this level of care possible. Every message of encouragement, share, and donation is appreciated.”

Jackie was rescued after being found grounded

According to the Ojai Raptor Center, adult Bald Eagle patient 26-519 arrived at the facility on Saturday, July 18, after being found grounded and unable to fly. Weak and vulnerable, the eagle was admitted for a full medical assessment and emergency treatment.

While the center said it cannot independently confirm the bird's identity, available information and the circumstances surrounding the rescue suggest the patient is part of the well-known Big Bear breeding pair.