Jackie, Beloved Big Bear Bald Eagle, Dies After Weeks of Illness

Jackie, the beloved bald eagle who became a worldwide phenomenon through a live nest camera above California's Big Bear Lake, has died following a three-week battle with severe anemia and illness.

The Ojai Raptor Center announced her death in the early morning hours of Aug. 10, following more than three weeks of intensive medical care. "It is with profound sadness that we share that Patient 26-519 passed away in the early hours of this morning, following more than three weeks of intensive medical care," the center said. In a statement acknowledging her global following, the organization added, "We know this news will be deeply felt by the many thousands of people around the world who have followed her journey, hoped alongside us, prayed for her, and supported the people caring for her."

How the Ordeal Began

Jackie was rescued on July 18 after being found unable to fly along the shores of Big Bear Lake, following what wildlife experts described as a repeated attack by two juvenile bald eagles near Dana Point Park on the lake's north shore. She had first been spotted grounded on July 16. Experts said she suffered no broken bones or other major physical injuries in the altercation, but testing at the Ojai Raptor Center revealed she was battling severe anemia and kidney inflammation from an unknown underlying illness, one that veterinarians believe may have already been weakening her at the time of the attack.