Friends of Big Bear Valley via Meta
Jackie, the bald eagle followed by millions through the Big Bear Eagle Cam, has laid the first egg of the 2026 nesting season. The moment was captured live by Friends of Big Bear Valley, the California nonprofit that operates the popular 24/7 webcam overlooking the nest in the San Bernardino Mountains. Her longtime mate, Shadow, quickly joined her as the pair began another season of caring for their growing family.
The arrival of Egg #1 marks the start of one of North America’s most closely watched wildlife events. Thousands of people keep the livestream open each winter to observe natural bald eagle behaviour, from egg-laying and incubation to the first flights of young eaglets.
Jackie and Shadow begin incubation
Shortly after the egg was laid, Shadow returned to the nest while Jackie settled carefully over it. The pair has developed a familiar routine over previous nesting seasons, quietly exchanging incubation duties while keeping a close watch on the surrounding forest.
Friends of Big Bear Valley says Jackie could lay another egg within the next few days. Bald eagles usually lay between one and five eggs, with each arriving several days apart. Once the clutch is complete, both parents share incubation responsibilities by taking turns keeping the eggs warm while the other searches for food or guards the nest.
Viewers often notice smooth “shift changes” between Jackie and Shadow. One eagle quietly replaces the other so the eggs remain protected while both adults continue watching over the nesting area.
What happens after the first egg?
The first egg begins an important stage of the breeding season. Although Jackie may spend long periods in the nest, consistent incubation often increases after additional eggs have been laid. This timing helps eaglets hatch closer together, giving siblings a more even start during the demanding first weeks of life.
It is also normal for eggs to be uncovered briefly while the adults adjust their position or exchange duties. During these short periods, one or both eagles usually remain close enough to respond quickly if needed.
Last year’s nesting season raised hopes and challenges
Interest in this year’s nest follows an emotional 2025 season. Jackie laid three eggs, and all hatched successfully. However, one eaglet later died after severe winter weather affected the nest. The remaining two chicks, Sunny and Gizmo, survived and eventually fledged, giving wildlife enthusiasts an encouraging ending after weeks of uncertainty.
Because the livestream shows nature without intervention, every season is different. Weather, food availability and predators can all influence whether eaglets survive through the nesting period.
Bald eagles remain one of the most recognizable wildlife symbols in the United States, reflecting one of the country’s greatest conservation success stories. Their cultural significance continues to appear in major national events and advertising, including the Budweiser 150th anniversary Super Bowl commercial featuring a bald eagle and Clydesdales, which highlights why the species continues to hold such a strong place in American culture.
Friends of Big Bear Valley told ABC News that no one can predict exactly how the nesting season will unfold. For now, Jackie and Shadow remain focused on caring for Egg #1, while viewers wait to see whether another egg appears over the coming days.
Note: Wildlife events are unpredictable. Nest conditions can change because of weather, food availability, predators and other natural environmental factors.
