Jake Harper
Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear's beloved bald eagle couple, have welcomed several chicks into the world over the years. In 2019, they had two chicks named Simba and Cookie. Unfortunately, Cookie did not survive a severe rain and snowstorm. In 2022, they had one chick named Spirit, and in 2025, they welcomed two more chicks, their first hatchlings in three years. Jackie and Shadow's dedication to their offspring has captivated audiences worldwide, with many tuning in to watch the proud parents care for their young.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of chicks | 6 |
| Names of the chicks | Stormy, BBB (Big Bear Baby), Simba, Cookie, Spirit, and 3 unnamed chicks |
| Number of eggs laid | 14 |
| Number of eggs hatched | 6 |
| Number of eggs that failed to hatch | 6 |
| Number of eggs with unknown outcomes | 2 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Jackie and Shadow's first two chicks were named Simba and Cookie
Jackie and Shadow are a pair of bald eagles that reside in Big Bear Valley. In the fall of 2018, Jackie laid two eggs, which hatched in April 2019. The two chicks were named Simba and Cookie. The names were chosen by a group of local third graders from twenty-five submissions in a "name the chicks" contest. Both eaglets were determined to be male. Sadly, Cookie did not survive a rain and snowstorm followed by freezing temperatures when he was only six weeks old. On the other hand, Simba successfully fledged on July 23rd and eventually left the Big Bear Valley. He was last spotted at the nest on August 18th.
Simba, on the other hand, thrived and successfully fledged. Fledgling is a significant milestone for young eagles, as it marks their first flight away from the nest. After fledging, Simba continued to explore and spread his wings, eventually leaving the Big Bear Valley. His last known sighting at the nest was on August 18th. Simba's survival and successful departure from the nest brought relief and joy to those who had been following his journey. Jackie and Shadow's mixed fortunes with their first two chicks, Simba and Cookie, underscore the delicate balance between life and death in the natural world.
The loss of Cookie served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of nature. Despite the tragedy, Jackie and Shadow continued their dedicated parenting, ensuring that Simba received the necessary care and guidance. Their story highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the value of initiatives like the Friends of Big Bear Valley's eagle cam, which provide valuable insights into the lives of these majestic birds and foster a deeper appreciation for nature. Through the highs and lows of Jackie and Shadow's journey, people gained a deeper understanding of the beauty and challenges inherent in the natural world.
Why Your Chicken Paprikash Gravy Isn't Thickening
You may want to see also
Explore related products
In 2022, they had one chick, named Spirit
Jackie and Shadow are a mating pair of bald eagles that have been together since 2018. In 2022, they had one chick, named Spirit, who hatched on March 3. Spirit was considered a miracle baby by many, as Jackie's clutches of eggs in 2020 and 2021 were either eaten by ravens or didn't hatch. In addition, in 2022, Jackie and Shadow had another egg that did not hatch.
Spirit is not Jackie and Shadow's first chick together. In 2019, they had two chicks, and in 2018, Jackie successfully hatched two chicks, BBB and Stormy, with her previous mate, Mr. B. Sadly, BBB did not survive, but Stormy fledged and left the area.
Jackie and Shadow's chick, Spirit, has a rich history that dates back to even before her birth. In March 2022, Spirit's birth brought joy and hope to those who had been eagerly awaiting her arrival. With a famous eagle family and a strong will to emerge from her shell, Spirit's early life was filled with anticipation and celebration.
Spirit's birth was a significant event for several reasons. Firstly, she was considered a miracle baby by many. After two years of disappointment, with Jackie's clutches of eggs being either eaten by ravens or failing to hatch, Spirit's successful hatching brought a sense of triumph and relief. Secondly, Spirit's birth was highly anticipated by fans and followers of her parents, Jackie and Shadow, who are considered a celebrity bald eagle couple. The journey to Spirit's hatching was not without challenges. Jackie and Shadow's previous eggs had faced issues, either falling prey to ravens or failing to hatch. This made Spirit's successful emergence all the more special and emotionally charged for those invested in her story.
Rubbing Chicken: How Much Spice is Needed?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
In March 2025, they welcomed two chicks
Jackie and Shadow, the famous bald eagle couple of Big Bear Valley, have had several chicks together. In March 2025, they welcomed two chicks, their first hatchlings in three years. The first chick hatched around 11:30 p.m. on Monday, March 3, and the second poked through just before 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday. The proud parents were observed keeping a close eye on their little ones.
The arrival of the two chicks was met with excitement and joy by eagle enthusiasts around the world. More than 80,000 people tuned in to the live stream on Tuesday morning, eager to catch a glimpse of the new hatchlings. The executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, Sandy Steers, shared the happiness of the fans, expressing her thrill and gratitude for people's connection with nature.
The two chicks were the result of three eggs laid by Jackie in January 2025. Eagles typically have one to three eggs at a time, and in this case, all three eggs appeared viable initially. The first two chicks successfully hatched, while the third egg, unfortunately, did not result in a hatchling. This outcome was confirmed by Friends of Big Bear Valley, who shared the sad news on their Facebook page.
Jackie and Shadow's chicks were expected to start feeding on raw meat provided by their parents within a few days of hatching. Bald eagles, unlike some other birds, do not regurgitate their food for their young. The feeding process involves the parents tearing off small pieces of meat and holding them up to the chicks' beaks. The first feeds can be a bit awkward, as the chicks learn to sit up straight and coordinate their movements.
The chicks will remain in the nest for several weeks, growing and gaining strength before they attempt their first flight, known as fledging. Typically, bald eagle chicks fledge when they are around 10 to 14 weeks old. After fledging, the young eagles will spend some time in the area, exploring and learning before they eventually venture out on their own to navigate the world.
Reheating Crispy Chicken: Best Methods to Keep That Crunch
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The pair have never had triplets, but in 2025, a third egg hatched
Jackie and Shadow, a beloved bald eagle couple in Big Bear, have had several chicks together. In 2018, Jackie laid two eggs, which hatched into chicks named Simba and Cookie. Sadly, Cookie did not survive a harsh storm. In 2019, Jackie laid two eggs, but neither hatched. In 2021, Jackie laid two eggs, and one hatched, while in 2022, another single egg hatched, and the chick was named Spirit.
In 2025, Jackie and Shadow had three eggs, and for the first time, all three hatched. The first two chicks emerged on March 3, and the third hatched shortly after. This was an unprecedented event, as Jackie and Shadow had never had triplets before. The excitement was palpable, with over 80,000 people tuning in to the livestream. The two older chicks were named by the public, and the third was likely to be named by a local third-grade class, as per tradition. The names of the triplets are yet to be decided.
Jackie and Shadow's journey to parenthood has had its ups and downs. In 2021, they lost one chick to severe weather conditions, and in 2022, one of their eggs did not hatch. The pair have experienced the joy of successful hatchings and the sadness of loss. Despite the challenges, they have persevered and continued to be devoted parents to their chicks.
The bald eagle couple has become famous in Big Bear and beyond, with their story capturing the hearts of many. Their nesting activities have been closely followed by eagle enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The Friends of Big Bear Valley organisation has played a crucial role in observing and protecting the eagles, providing valuable insights into their behaviour and ensuring their safety.
Chicken, Rice, and Veggies: The Ultimate Bulking Diet?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
In 2019, Jackie and Shadow had two chicks, but one died
Jackie and Shadow are a pair of bald eagles in Big Bear Valley, California. In 2019, they had two chicks, named Simba and Cookie. Unfortunately, Cookie did not survive a rain and snowstorm followed by freezing temperatures. This was not the first time Jackie and Shadow lost a chick to bad weather. In 2013, neither of Ricky and Lucy's two chicks survived a major 4-day rain, wind, and snow storm.
Jackie and Shadow's remaining chick, Simba, fledged successfully on July 23rd and eventually left the Big Bear Valley. He was last seen at the nest on August 18th. The loss of Cookie impacted Jackie and Shadow's behaviour greatly, but they recovered over the next few days and continued to visit the nest.
In 2022, Jackie and Shadow had another chick, named Spirit. She successfully fledged on May 31st. In 2023, Jackie laid two more eggs. The first hatched on March 3rd, and the second sometime overnight. A third egg also hatched, but one of the chicks did not survive a severe winter storm.
Jackie and Shadow's chicks have captured the hearts of viewers around the world. More than 80,000 people tuned in to watch the livestream of the chicks hatching in 2025. The proud parents can be seen on the Friends of Big Bear Valley live cam, diligently caring for and feeding their chicks.
Hot Dogs: Beef, Pork, or Chicken — Which Reigns Supreme?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Jackie and Shadow had two chicks in 2025, their first hatchlings in three years. The chicks were their first to survive since 2019, when they also had two chicks.
Since Friends of Big Bear Valley started observing Jackie and Shadow's behaviour in 2015, the pair have had at least six chicks. They had two chicks in 2019, one in 2022, and three in 2025.
Jackie and Shadow lost one chick in 2025 due to a severe winter storm. They also lost two eggs in 2022, one of which hatched but did not survive the hatching process. In 2021, they had two eggs that did not hatch. In 2020, they had two eggs that were determined to be non-viable.
