First Eaglet Hatches in Big Bear! Jackie & Shadow Welcome Chick 1 🐣🦅

It’s official—the first eaglet of the 2026 season has hatched at the Big Bear eagle nest! At 9:33 PM on April 4th, Chick 1 fully broke free from its egg after an intense 36-hour hatching process, marking a major milestone for Jackie and Shadow, the beloved bald eagle pair of Big Bear Valley.

For eagle cam viewers and wildlife-loving friends, this is one of the most exciting moments of the year. After days of careful incubation, we now have our first glimpse of new life in the nest.

Chick 1 Has Arrived – Chick 2 Is On the Way

The eaglet, currently referred to as Chick 1, is resting after the demanding hatch process. Meanwhile, Egg 2 has already pipped and is making steady progress—meaning a second hatch could happen very soon.

This is exactly why bald eagles practice delayed incubation—so siblings hatch closer together, increasing their chances of survival.

Honoring Tradition in Big Bear Valley

As excitement builds, many in the community have suggested naming one of the chicks “Sandy” in honor of Sandy Steers and her incredible environmental contributions to the Valley.

However, in keeping with tradition, the official naming will happen through a fundraiser contest, followed by a vote from local 3rd grade students—a process that has brought joy to the community for years and will continue as a meaningful tribute.

A New Chapter Begins

With Chick 1 now safely in the nest and Chick 2 on the way, Jackie and Shadow officially enter the eaglet-rearing phase—one of the most dynamic and heartwarming stages of the bald eagle lifecycle.

From feedings to first movements, every moment ahead will be worth watching.