Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear Lake Eagles, Soaring over Big Bear Lake

How to Spot Bald Eagles in Big Bear Lake: A Birdwatcher’s Guide 🦅

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing a bald eagle in the wild, Big Bear Lake, California, is one of the best places to make that dream a reality. Home to Jackie and Shadow, the area's famous nesting pair, Big Bear offers year-round opportunities to spot eagles soaring high, perched in tall pines, or feeding near the lake’s edge.

Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious first-timer, here’s everything you need to know to spot bald eagles in Big Bear—plus a few tips to help you look the part while doing it.

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If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing a bald eagle in the wild, Big Bear Lake, California, is one of the best places to make that dream a reality. Home to Jackie and Shadow, the area's famous nesting pair, Big Bear offers year-round opportunities to spot eagles soaring high, perched in tall pines, or feeding near the lake’s edge.

Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious first-timer, here’s everything you need to know to spot bald eagles in Big Bear—plus a few tips to help you look the part while doing it.

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🕒 Best Time to Spot Bald Eagles in Big Bear

While bald eagles can be seen year-round in Big Bear, your chances improve during specific seasons:

  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Migratory eagles join our local pair, making winter the peak eagle-watching season.

  • Spring (Mar–May): Nesting season! Watch for feeding flights and chick activity at the nest.

  • Early Summer (Jun–Jul): Fledge season—young eagles like Sunny and Gizmo begin flying and exploring nearby trees.

Tip: Mornings (8–10 AM) and late afternoons (4–6 PM) are the most active eagle hours.

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🌲 Where to Look for Eagles in Big Bear

Here are some favorite eagle hot spots:

  • The Nest Tree: Visible via the Big Bear Eagle Cam. Watch online or use it to guide your visit.

  • Twin Pine Tree: A favorite roosting and perch location for Jackie and Shadow.

  • High Perch & Attic Branches: Popular spots for fledglings and visitors like hawks and squirrels.

  • Lake Edges & Open Shorelines: Eagles are often spotted hunting for fish or scavenging near open water.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars or a zoom lens—and be patient. Eagle-watching is a slow and rewarding art.

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🛍️ Shop Birdwatching Gear Inspired by Big Bear’s Eagles

Looking the part makes birdwatching even better—and supports our work telling these stories. Check out:

 

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