In the heart of Southern California’s San Bernardino Mountains, a heartwarming tale of dedication and resilience is unfolding as thousands of people from around the world tune into a livestream provided by Friends of Big Bear Valley. The livestream showcases the incredible efforts of two bald eagles named Jackie and Shadow, who are working tirelessly to protect their eggs amidst a major winter storm.
For over 40 days, Jackie and Shadow have been diligently incubating their eggs in their nest nestled within a Jeffrey Pine tree in Big Bear, California. Despite the frigid temperatures, the devoted eagle parents are undeterred, taking turns covering their precious eggs with their feathery bodies and even embracing the snowy blanket that the storm has brought.
According to the non-profit organization and advocacy group, Friends of Big Bear Valley, bald eagles possess more than 7,000 waterproof feathers, which effectively shield them from the snow. This means that the snow they shake off doesn’t even dampen their bodies, and they have an extra layer to keep themselves warm and dry.
The livestream offers viewers an intimate glimpse into the eagles’ behavior during these challenging weather conditions. Observers have witnessed Jackie’s ingenious strategy for handling the bad weather by sleeping through as much as possible. Once awake, she expertly shakes off the soft white snow, with her waterproof feathers acting as a perfect shield, leaving her completely dry even under her snowy roof.
Recent updates from Friends of Big Bear Valley reveal that Jackie spent hours nest-sitting last weekend, and both eagle parents are taking turns diligently attending to their precious eggs. As of Monday afternoon, over 14,000 people were captivated by the livestream, eagerly observing the eagle pair in their nest.
Although the eggs were laid on separate days in January, the organization admits that the chances of hatching are uncertain. Yet, the dedicated eagle parents will continue incubating them for a few more weeks before possibly conceding. Despite this uncertainty, the livestream has offered a unique opportunity for people to learn about these majestic birds of prey and their remarkable behavior in the face of harsh weather conditions.
This heartening story of Jackie and Shadow’s devotion echoes that of another eagle in Minnesota, who also captured attention last week for enduring the snowy weather while sitting on its eggs. According to the state Department of Natural Resources, the blanket of snow on and around the eagle’s nest could actually help retain warmth and protect the eggs.
As we witness these awe-inspiring displays of parenthood in the animal kingdom, we are reminded of the incredible strength and determination that exists in nature. Jackie and Shadow’s story serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting these magnificent creatures, ensuring that they continue to thrive and inspire us for generations to come.
