KD1 returned beneath the Big Bear nest for a second straight day, but the most intriguing moment came after sunset when KD1 and Shadow settled into the same roost tree.
Shadow returned to the Big Bear nest after three weeks, and KD1 followed him in. Then one gentle moment changed the feeling of the entire visit.
Hours after Jackie died, KD1 did something never seen before: the banded young eagle landed in Jackie and Shadow’s nest, then ended the night near Shadow.
Jackie, Big Bear’s beloved bald eagle and Shadow’s longtime mate, died August 10 after more than three weeks of intensive care. Her life leaves a legacy far beyond the nest.
Shadow and banded eagle KD1 spent Sunday morning moving through Big Bear before sharing the Twin Pines and exchanging vocals. Then the rain started, while questions swirled about what KD1’s continued presence really means.
Jackie came through anesthesia after a contrast CT scan and bone marrow biopsy, but the most difficult part now begins: waiting for the tests to reveal what has kept the Big Bear eagle so ill.
Mom, the resident Hays bald eagle, returned to the Glen Hazel nest on July 24 and found tall summer grass overtaking her home. She carefully inspected the greenery, watched the valley and revealed striking close-up details before taking flight.
Shadow and a sub-adult eagle spent the night in the same Big Bear roost tree, but a second young eagle nearby made the evening even more surprising.
The latest update on Jackie brought the news no one wanted. Her anemia has worsened, her PCV has fallen to 13%, and advanced testing is now underway.
Decorah eagle dad HD arrived with a fresh fish on July 26, 2026, and DH4 wrapped him in what looked like a giant wing hug. And Dad was about to make the moment even better.