Big Bear Bald Eagles Jackie and Shadow Begin Nest Prep as Egg Season Approaches

Bald eagle fans are once again watching closely as Jackie and Shadow return to familiar routines in Big Bear, signaling that nesting season is officially underway.

New video from the nest shows Jackie hard at work, bringing in sticks and performing a behavior known as “pancaking,” where she lays flat in the nest to help shape and prepare it for future eggs. Wildlife experts say this is a key sign that egg-laying season could be approaching.

Last year, Jackie laid three eggs on January 22, January 25, and January 28. Those eggs later hatched in early March, welcoming eaglets Sunny and Gizmo and capturing the attention of viewers across the country.

With the calendar now inching closer to late January, eagle watchers are eager to see if history repeats itself. The nesting cycle for Jackie and Shadow typically follows a similar pattern each year, beginning with nest preparation before eggs arrive.

The popular Big Bear bald eagle nest has become a must-watch for nature lovers, offering a rare and intimate look at the lives of these iconic birds as they raise their young.

As Jackie continues fine-tuning the nest, anticipation is building for what could be another successful season in Big Bear.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.