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Vet teams believe Jackie was already sick before eagle fight captured on video near Big Bear nest

ABC7 Los Angeles • July 22, 2026 • nation

Key Points:

Jackie, a bald eagle near Big Bear Lake, is in critical condition at the Ojai Raptor Center, suffering from severe anemia and kidney inflammation, with tests ongoing to determine causes such as zinc, rodenticides, or lead exposure.
Jackie was found grounded and unable to fly after a territorial fight with two younger eagles, likely weakened by pre-existing illness, as captured in video footage by witnesses.
Rescuers from the San Dimas Raptor Rescue Team, called by concerned locals, safely transported Jackie for treatment; her eaglets are currently cared for by their father.
Wildlife experts highlight environmental toxins, especially lead and rodenticides, as significant threats to eagle health, with many eagles testing positive for these contaminants despite hunting restrictions in California.
Recovery for Jackie may take weeks or longer, with hopes she will return to her nest and continue to thrive, underscoring the impact of human actions on wildlife conservation.

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