The famous bald eagle pair from Southern California, Jackie and Shadow, are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their third and final eaglet. Viewers tuned in to a live camera feed by Friends of Big Bear Valley (FBBV) witnessed a significant moment known as the “Pip movement” in the third egg at around 10:21 a.m., as shared in the nonprofit’s Facebook update on Thursday. The video captured the subtle crack, signaling the eaglet’s attempt to hatch, while the two older siblings frolicked in the snow, seemingly encouraging their soon-to-be brother or sister.
By 9:07 a.m. the following day, the pip in the third egg had expanded, showing signs of movement, as shown on FBBV’s live feed. The process of hatching is ongoing, and it may take a day or more for the chick to fully emerge from its shell, as explained in FBBV’s recent Facebook post. With sunny weather expected the next day, the stage is set for the newest addition, lovingly nicknamed Chick3.
Jackie and Shadow’s first two eggs hatched on the night of Monday and early Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of joy and excitement among viewers. The dedicated parents have been diligently caring for their newborns, ensuring they are well-fed, warm, and shielded from the elements.
As a snowstorm approached on Thursday, Jackie and Shadow were seen bracing for the weather, with the chicks prepped and nest lined with soft fluff. The couple weathered the storm together, demonstrating their resilience and unwavering commitment to their growing family.
Reflecting on the previous year, Jackie and Shadow faced disappointment as their eggs failed to hatch within the expected timeframe due to factors like altitude and temperature. Despite this setback, they have successfully raised eaglets in previous years, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of nature’s cycle.
The couple’s current clutch of eggs, laid in late January, has captivated audiences, offering a glimpse into the intimate and captivating journey of parenthood in the wild. As anticipation mounts for the imminent hatching of their third eaglet, viewers are invited to witness the unfolding story of Jackie and Shadow’s growing family.
