The captivating lives of bald eagles Jackie and Shadow from Big Bear, California, have transformed into a global sensation, captivating audiences through live-streaming technology. These majestic birds have garnered millions of followers, thanks to a nonprofit initiative that broadcasts their daily activities from a nest located in San Bernardino County.
Marie Braasch, a resident of Chino, California, has yet to visit the site of the famous nest but remains an ardent supporter, watching the eagles daily with her family. The family’s connection to Jackie and Shadow, built through a screen, showcases how nature can unite people. “It’s just peaceful,” Braasch shared, emphasizing the raw and unscripted aspect of observing wildlife.
The nonprofit organization, Friends of Big Bear Valley, operates continuous webcams that offer a window into the lives of these eagles. According to Jennifer Voisard, the group’s media and website manager, the initiative has attracted around 2.4 million social media followers, including over 1 million on Facebook.
The live stream’s appeal lies in its authenticity. Gina Muscato, social media manager at UC Riverside, noted that animal content often resonates with audiences seeking uplifting and wholesome experiences during challenging times. The lack of editing or artificial intelligence in the broadcasts adds to their charm, drawing viewers from across the globe.
The A.K. Smiley Public Library in Redlands even set up a monitor to stream the eagle cam for patrons, demonstrating the project’s reach within the community. Sandy Steers, Executive Director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, stated, “This is an unscripted view into the daily lives of bald eagles. They are amazing creatures, and there is so much that we can learn from them.”
The live feed attracts thousands of viewers daily, with a dedicated team of volunteers monitoring the cameras and engaging with the audience. Peter Sharpe, who recently retired from the Institute for Wildlife Studies, was instrumental in establishing the 24/7 video feed, collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service to ensure the safety of the birds and their habitat.
The first camera was installed in October 2015, with a second added in 2021 to provide a broader view of the nest. Both cameras are solar-powered and positioned 145 feet high. A team of approximately 45 contractors and volunteers oversees the feeds, ensuring they operate smoothly while providing educational outreach.
The organization’s educational program has successfully reached over 4,000 students during the current nesting season, offering insights into conservation and the lives of these eagles. As the nesting period unfolds, audiences eagerly await updates on Jackie and Shadow’s offspring.
On January 23, 2026, the first egg of the nesting season was spotted in the live feed, followed by a second egg just three days later. Each announcement drew immense excitement, with footage garnering over a million views. Yet, the joy was short-lived when a raven breached the nest, leading to the loss of both eggs. The heartbreaking news prompted over 5,800 comments of condolences on the Friends’ Facebook page.
Despite the setback, Peter Sharpe reassured fans that the eagles could lay eggs again within a month. “Fortunately, they can recycle and lay eggs again,” he explained, suggesting a hopeful outlook for future nesting attempts.
Viewers, including Braasch, expressed deep emotional connections to Jackie and Shadow, often personifying the birds’ experiences. “It was hard to watch, especially with how attached you get to these eagles over the years,” commented viewer Sarah Fraley.
The phenomenon surrounding Jackie and Shadow is reminiscent of how iconic wildlife images, like those of the Grand Canyon, have captured the public’s imagination. Yolonda Youngs, a professor at Cal State San Bernardino, noted that the eagles symbolize resilience amidst the challenges of Southern California’s climate.
As the livestream continues, viewers from diverse locations, including Hawaii, New Jersey, and even Australia, remain captivated by the daily lives of Jackie and Shadow. Vicki Leach from Starkville, Mississippi, reflected on the communal experience, stating, “Getting to see the wonderful birds with others who are watching the same thing from all over the place is just a fun ‘small world’ experience.”
For Braasch and her family, the eagles represent more than just wildlife; they embody the intricate cycle of life and the fragility of nature. “If you look at it and study them, you’ll see that they’ve got feelings… They’re creating life,” she remarked.
As viewers continue to tune in, they are reminded of the beauty and unpredictability of nature, where moments of joy and sorrow coexist, drawing communities together in shared experiences.
