Petition launched to return remains of bald eagle Jackie to Big Bear.
A petition initiative aiming to halt the transfer of the remains of Jackie, a beloved bald eagle formerly residing in Big Bear Valley, has gained momentum. The online petition, hosted on Change.org, is requesting an exception to federal law that would prevent Jackie’s remains from being sent to a federal repository in Colorado. This facility is designated to supply eagle feathers and wings to Native American tribes for cultural and ceremonial uses. As of Thursday afternoon, the petition had garnered over 800 signatures.
The petition was initiated by Sandra Sehl, although attempts to contact her were unsuccessful by the deadline for this report. The community surrounding Big Bear Valley remains in mourning following the eagle’s passing, which was captured by a live-stream camera operated by the environmental nonprofit Friends of Big Bear Valley. Jackie was discovered grounded after a confrontation with two younger eagles in mid-July, and although she received extensive medical care from the Ojai Raptor Center in Ventura County, she ultimately succumbed to various health issues.
The exact cause of Jackie’s death remains undisclosed. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced on August 11 that a necropsy would be conducted by veterinary pathologists from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance before she was transferred to the National Eagle Repository, in accordance with federal regulations.
Some members of the community are advocating for Jackie’s remains to remain in the San Bernardino Mountains rather than being transferred to the repository. They believe that returning her remains to the Big Bear Valley would allow for the establishment of a permanent educational exhibit dedicated to her life, focusing on topics such as bald eagle recovery, conservation efforts, and habitat preservation.
Voicing a different perspective, Friends of Big Bear Valley spokesperson Jenny Voisard stated that the nonprofit does not endorse the petition and would prefer that the remains be entrusted to the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, indicating a respect for cultural traditions.
Plans for a celebration of life honoring Jackie are reportedly underway, with community agencies discussing an event scheduled for October 3, although details have yet to be announced. Meanwhile, a shrine dedicated to Jackie has been set up in Fawnskin, in a privately owned park, signifying the deep affection the community has for her legacy.
Adding to these sentiments, the Ontario Tower Buzzers, a single-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, is collaborating with Friends of Big Bear Valley for a “Fly High, Jackie” night at an upcoming game, where a portion of ticket sales will support the nonprofit’s work. The effort reflects the community’s desire to celebrate Jackie’s life while also advocating for conservation and education surrounding bald eagles.
