Veterinarians at the Ojai Raptor Center have shared concerning news about Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from Big Bear.
On Monday, the center announced that Jackie’s packed cell volume (PCV), a measure of her red blood cell count, has dropped to 13%, indicating a worsening of her anemia. This setback casts doubt on when, or if, Jackie will be released back into the wild.
Jackie has been under the care of the Ojai Raptor Center since July 17, after being found grounded and unable to fly near Big Bear Lake. Despite some initial signs of improvement, including an increase in her PCV to 17% last week, her condition remains critical. According to the center, Jackie is still battling severe anemia and elevated white blood cell counts, which suggest an underlying infection or stress.
Veterinarians have ruled out several potential causes of Jackie’s illness, including lead and zinc poisoning, rodenticide toxicosis, and renal disease. However, the exact cause of her condition remains unknown. The center is conducting advanced diagnostic tests and has requested expedited laboratory results to guide the next steps in her treatment.
Jackie’s health crisis has drawn concern from millions of fans who have followed her journey through the Friends of Big Bear Valley Eagle Nest Cam. The Ojai Raptor Center has urged the public to respect the privacy of the veterinary team as they focus on Jackie’s care. Those wishing to support her recovery can donate to the Bald Eagle Rehabilitation campaign on the center’s website.
For updates on Jackie’s condition, the public can follow the Ojai Raptor Center and Friends of Big Bear Valley on social media.
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