After their first set of eggs was tragically taken by ravens earlier this season, Jackie and Shadow didn’t miss a beat. The resilient pair laid two more eggs… and now, a few weeks later, both have officially hatched. Two fuzzy and extremely cute little eaglets are here, wobbly heads and all.
Fans glued to the livestream can already spot the tiny duo learning the basics: holding their heads up, eating from their parents, and occasionally bonking each other (totally normal sibling chaos, by the way). For now, they’re simply Chick 1 and Chick 2, but not for long…
The naming contest is coming back
If you’ve been following this nest for a while, you know the drill: the internet throws out name ideas, and Big Bear students make the final call. Last year gave us Sunny and Gizmo (arguably elite naming choices), continuing a tradition that’s become just as anticipated as the hatching itself.
For 2026, the naming buzz has already started, and there’s one suggestion popping up everywhere: “Sandy,” in honor of Sandy Steers, the environmental advocate behind the eagle cam who passed away earlier this year.
That said, Friends of Big Bear Valley has made it clear that they plan to honor her in a more permanent way, not through the chicks’ names. Instead, they’re sticking with tradition: local third graders will once again get the final vote, because yes, this is basically their Super Bowl.
Here’s how it typically works:
- The public submits name ideas.
- A shortlist is created.
- Big Bear students pick the winners.
The official 2026 naming contest date hasn’t been released just yet, but the announcement is expected soon, so now’s the time to start brainstorming your winning picks!