Stories
Jackie the Famous California Bald Eagle Died from Bird Flu
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CNBC TV18•16-10-2026, 08:48
Jackie the Famous California Bald Eagle Died from Bird Flu
- •Jackie, a beloved California bald eagle who captivated millions online, died from highly pathogenic avian influenza in August.
- •A necropsy revealed that the virus caused a severe stomach ulcer leading to internal bleeding, anemia, and bacterial sepsis.
- •For over a decade, nature enthusiasts watched Jackie and her partner Shadow on a live nest camera near Big Bear Lake.
- •Officials confirmed there is currently no evidence that Shadow is ill.
- •Jackie's remains were cremated to prevent any potential transmission of the virus.
Key Questions Answered
A necropsy revealed that the primary underlying cause of Jackie's death in August was highly pathogenic avian influenza. The virus caused an uncommon severe stomach ulcer leading to persistent internal bleeding, anemia, and bacterial sepsis.
For more than a decade, Jackie and her partner Shadow tended to their nest atop trees near Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains east of Los Angeles. Nature lovers regularly watched them via an online video feed installed by the nonprofit Friends of Big Bear Valley.
There is currently no evidence to suggest that Shadow, Jackie's partner, is ill. Following Jackie's death, her remains were cremated to prevent any potential transmission of the virus.
