Jackie the Big Bear bald eagle’s cause of death revealed after months of mystery; what wildlife officials found

Jackie, the Big Bear bald eagle whose life with her mate Shadow captivated millions through a 24-hour nest livestream, died in August after weeks of medical treatment failed to restore her health. Nearly two months later, wildlife officials have released the findings of an extensive post-mortem examination, shedding light on the illnesses that plagued the celebrated bird and addressing questions about a potentially toxic substance found in her body.

What caused Jackie the bald eagle’s death?

California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced on October 14 that highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, was the main cause of Jackie's condition. The necropsy done by the veterinary pathologists of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance revealed that the infection led to a severe stomach ulcer causing persistent internal bleeding and anemia.


"Jackie showed signs of chronic disease involving the ventriculus, the muscular portion of a bird's stomach, commonly called the gizzard. The damaged and ulcerated tissue contributed to ongoing blood loss and her persistent severe anemia," CDFW said in a statement quoted by CBS.

The infected tissues also led to the entry of bacteria into the body causing another serious infection. It was stated that Jackie had been facing several health issues.

Jackie was saved from the shores of Big Bear Lake in July when she was seen in a weak and unkempt condition. She was given treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center, including a blood transfusion, but she passed away on August 10.

Was rat poison found in Jackie’s body?

Yes. Brodifacoum, an anticoagulant rodenticide, was found in Jackie’s liver during toxicology screening. But this was not the main reason for her sickness or death.

As stated by the California wildlife department, there was no uncontrolled bleeding, which is common in cases of anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning. The West Nile virus was also excluded, and heavy metals were within safe levels.

What happened to Jackie’s remains?

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Eagle Repository cremated Jackie’s remains under procedures intended to prevent the transmission of avian influenza. The decision prompted objections from some supporters who had hoped the famous eagle could be preserved through taxidermy.

Jackie’s longtime mate, Shadow, remains in Big Bear. Officials said camera footage provided no evidence that Shadow or the eaglets were sick.