At a Glance
- Jackie laid her first egg on Jan. 23, 2026 at 4:32:24 p.m.
- The second egg followed on Jan. 26 around 5 p.m.
- The nest, located in a Jeffrey pine, is monitored 24/7 by Friends of Big Bear Valley.
- Why it matters: Fans worldwide watch the pair’s reproductive cycle in real time, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.
The world-famous bald eagles Jackie and Shadow, perched in a nest on a Jeffrey pine near Big Bear Lake, have once again drawn global attention. On Jan. 23, 2026, Jackie laid her first egg, followed three days later by the second. Friends of Big Bear Valley, a nonprofit dedicated to the area’s wildlife, streams the nest’s activities around the clock, allowing millions of viewers to witness the birds’ behavior from anywhere.
The 24/7 Nest Feed
Friends of Big Bear Valley operates a high-definition camera that captures every moment inside the nest. The feed is live, and viewers can see the eagles’ subtle actions-such as the “tea-kettling” sound, a low-whistling noise that often precedes egg laying. The nonprofit’s continuous coverage has turned the nest into a living laboratory for bird enthusiasts and scientists alike.
Jackie’s First Egg
Jackie’s first egg arrived on Jan. 23, 2026 at precisely 4:32:24 p.m. The moment was marked by a series of kettle-like whistles and feather-fluffing, signals that the eagle was preparing to lay. The egg was placed in a deep, well-constructed bowl that the pair had built, ensuring it was protected from the elements.
The Second Egg
Three days later, on Jan. 26, Jackie laid her second egg a little after 5 p.m. The timing mirrored her previous clutch: the second egg typically arrives within the same afternoon window as the first. While the exact minute varied, the pattern remained consistent, a fact that has fascinated bird watchers for years.
Incubation and Expectations
Bald eagles usually incubate their eggs for about 35 days, give or take. However, as often noted on eagle-watching forums, the birds ultimately control the exact duration. The current clutch of two eggs may or may not produce a third, as the eagles have carried three-egg clutches in the past. Fans are already keeping a close eye on the nest, hoping for another addition.
The Role of Friends of Big Bear Valley
Friends of Big Bear Valley’s mission extends beyond feeding the public. By maintaining the nest’s camera and sharing updates, the organization raises awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats. The nonprofit’s work demonstrates how community engagement can support wildlife conservation.
Global Community Engagement
The “Egg Watch” period in late January has become a cultural event for eagle enthusiasts worldwide. Viewers comment on the feed in real time, share insights, and sometimes even offer support to the nonprofit. This global community underscores the broader impact of local conservation efforts.
Why the Story Matters
The ongoing documentation of Jackie and Shadow’s reproductive cycle offers a window into the lives of bald eagles, a species that has long symbolized freedom in the United States. By providing a transparent look at their nesting habits, the nonprofit helps demystify the species and encourages stewardship among the public.
Key Takeaways
- Jackie laid her first egg on Jan. 23, 2026 and the second on Jan. 26.
- The nest is monitored 24/7 by Friends of Big Bear Valley.
- Incubation lasts about 35 days.
- A third egg is possible, adding to the excitement for observers.
- The global feed fosters a sense of shared responsibility for wildlife conservation.
The story of Jackie and Shadow continues to captivate, reminding us that even in a digital age, nature’s rhythms remain a source of wonder and connection.
