When the Big Bear eagles Jackie and Shadow set a new record delivering sticks, they also added fluff on Dec 7, a moment that excited locals and the Friends of Big Bear Valley.
Stick Building First
Jackie and Shadow, the well‑loved, watched‑around‑the‑clock, super‑famous Big Bear bald eagles, always begin nest construction by adding structure‑providing sticks. They gather these sticks with beak or talon, placing them carefully before softer materials arrive. The eagles choose sticks that can withstand the weight of future eggs and provide a sturdy base.
Record‑Breaking Day
In recent weeks the pair has been on impressive stick‑delivering duty. A new record was recently broken, with the bonded pair delivering the highest number of sticks in a day ever. The accomplishment underscores the eagles’ dedication to building a safe, supportive aerie.
Fluff Arrival on Dec 7
That record‑setting momentum was interrupted on Dec 7 when Shadow showed bearing fluff. It was the “big news” from a busy, build‑heavy day for the birds, per the Friends of Big Bear Valley, the nonprofit that operates cameras that watch the eagles around the clock, including a camera placed high in a Jeffrey pine near the nest.
Friends of Big Bear Valley Update
“He seemed quite happy with himself,” shared the Friends of Big Bear Valley on social media, observing his behavior following the fluff delivery. “Jackie noticed it and dug in right away when she came in.”
Egg Watch 2026 Timeline
Even though a steady‑ish stream of fluff may continue to arrive at the nest in the weeks to come, we are still a few weeks out from the exciting commencement of Egg Watch 2026. Jackie has laid eggs in past years around late January, give or take, but creating a cozy, fluff‑filled nursery well ahead of any expected little ones is a task that takes time, effort, and an eagle eye on the prize.
Key Takeaways
- Jackie and Shadow set a new stick‑delivery record.
- Fluff was added to the nest on Dec 7, marking a new phase of preparation.
- Egg Watch 2026 will begin in a few weeks, with eggs expected around late January.
The Big Bear eagles continue to captivate viewers with their meticulous nest‑building, and the Friends of Big Bear Valley remain eager to share every moment of this remarkable process.
