BIG BEAR, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Concerns are mounting among eagle enthusiasts after two of the three eaglets were visible during an early morning feeding session on Friday, March 14.
The absence of the third chick led to speculation about its well-being, prompting a wave of worried comments from followers of the Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) Facebook group.
Tara Walker, a concerned viewer, commented on the latest post, expressing concern: “I couldn’t see the third chick this morning – on the live stream. Hopefully, it’s okay and just not visible right now.”
FOBBV responded by reassuring followers that the visibility issues were due to snow obstructing part of the nest. “Right now, the visibility only shows us what you also see. Part of the nest bowl is obstructed by snow. We will wait to be updated by nature and please hold positive thoughts while we wait for that,” the group stated.
The mystery deepened at 6:49 am when the mother eagle, Jackie, was observed feeding only two eaglets, with the third nowhere to be seen.
Some FOBBV members speculated that the missing chick might have been briefly caught in the talons of its father, Shadow, before tumbling back into the nest.
However, the incident left some unanswered questions. The snowstorm that swept through the San Bernardino County mountains had blanketed the nest with heavy snow, and it appeared that the third eaglet had been pushed to the edge of the bowl and covered in snow. Only the chick’s beak was visible, with snow accumulating on the side of the nest.
While the snow around the chick’s beak had melted, commenters noted that at less than a week old, the chick would likely have been unable to regulate its body temperature and may not have survived such exposure.
“The visibility of the third chick was compromised due to the heavy snowstorm,” explained a member of the FOBBV. “With winter storms bringing significant snowfall to the area, we’re all on edge about the fate of the chick, but Jackie and Shadow have been incredibly vigilant in their care.”
The storms have been particularly harsh in recent days, with a series of winter weather systems blanketing the Big Bear area.
Despite these challenges, Jackie, the mother eagle, has shown remarkable resilience, demonstrating her ability to endure these conditions and protect her young.
“Jackie is such an amazing super mom, withstanding these storms like a pro. We may worry about her at times, but she always shows us her strength and fortitude as she covers and protects her chicks with every ounce of her being,” commented FOBBV. “She is an amazing example to all of us to remain calm and stay the course, and good things will be waiting for us when we persevere.”
Jackie and Shadow’s parenting has been closely observed by eagle enthusiasts, who admire the couple’s ability to adapt to the challenges of raising their chicks.
On Thursday, March 13, during the third feeding of the day, both parents fed the chicks simultaneously, which fans noted as an effective strategy to ensure all the eaglets were well-fed.
“A dual feeding seemed super effective and productive as all the chicks received ample amounts of food. This could help avoid bonking and sibling rivalry, so Jackie and Shadow may be learning some new things having three chicks in the nest,” stated FOBBV.
A Winter Weather Advisory issued on Friday, March 14th at 8:20 am impacting the City of Big Bear Lake.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) the forecast calls for snowfall of 3-5 inches from 4,500 – 6,500 feet, and 6-8 inches on the higher peaks above 8,000 feet. Wind gusts as high as 60 mph are possible.
As fans continue to monitor the live stream, the community remains hopeful for the well-being of the eagle family, hoping that the snowstorm will pass without further complications.
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