...
...
Next Story

Jackie the eagle cause of death: How did the beloved Big Bear eagle die? What authorities revealed

Jackie was rescued in mid-July after she was found weak, underweight, disheveled and unable to fly on the north shore of Big Bear Lake.

Updated on: Aug 11, 2026, 02:12:15 IST
Advertisement

Jackie, the famous bald eagle from Big Bear Lake, California, died early Monday morning at age 14.

Jackie's remains have been transferred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. (X)
Jackie's remains have been transferred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. (X)

She died at the Ojai Raptor Center after spending more than three weeks in intensive care. The center said her condition continued to worsen despite oxygen therapy, supportive treatment, round-the-clock monitoring and consultations with specialists.

"She remained critically ill, receiving oxygen therapy, supportive treatment, and around-the-clock monitoring in our intensive care unit," the center said in an Instagram post on Monday. "Throughout her time at Ojai Raptor Center, every decision was guided by the available medical evidence, her welfare, and our responsibility to do what was in her best interest."

What happened to Jackie?

Jackie was rescued in mid-July after she was found weak, underweight, disheveled and unable to fly on the north shore of Big Bear Lake.

She had been involved in a fight with two younger eagles. Caregivers said the encounter may have left her unable to fly, but it did not appear to be the cause of her underlying illness. Jackie showed signs that she had been sick for some time.

Extensive testing ruled out several possible causes, including lead poisoning, cancer and metal objects. Despite treatment, the exact cause of her illness remained unknown.

Jackie's remains have been transferred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

"We know this news will be deeply felt by the many thousands of people around the world who have followed her journey, hoped alongside us, prayed for her, and supported the people caring for her. Our team is heartbroken. It has been an extraordinary privilege to care for her," the center added.

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan

Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe