At a Glance
- Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear Lake’s famous bald eagles, are repeatedly “pancaking” in their nest.
- Pancaking-lying flat and spreading out-helps the birds test the nest bowl before eggs arrive.
- Egg Watch, the annual wait for new eggs, typically begins in late January.
- Why it matters: Viewers worldwide tune in to see if the pair will welcome eaglets this season.
Jackie and Shadow, the celebrity bald eagles of Big Bear Lake, have been spotted flattening themselves into the center of their stick-filled nest. The behavior, nicknamed “pancaking,” signals that egg-laying could be near.
What Is Pancaking?
Pancaking happens when an eagle settles into the nest bowl, spreads its wings slightly, and presses its body against the structure. The pose resembles a pancake-no syrup or butter required.
Friends of Big Bear Valley, the nonprofit that runs the live nest camera, explained the action in a January 15 social-media update:
- The move lets the birds test the bowl’s shape and comfort.
- Jackie does most of the pancaking, but Shadow has tried it twice.
- Males incubate eggs too, so Shadow needs to know the fit.
Timing the Next Clutch
Jackie has laid eggs in late January in previous years. Observers call the waiting period “Egg Watch.” The camera, mounted in a Jeffrey pine beside the nest, streams every flap and flutter to a global audience.
How to Follow Along
Keep an eye on the Friends of Big Bear Valley social pages as January ends. Posts will flag any eggs and chronicle the eagles’ next steps-whether that is one egg, two, or even three.
With two seasoned pancakers on duty, followers hope the nicest “nest” step will arrive soon.
