For years, the world has watched in awe as Jackie and Shadow, the beloved bald eagle pair of Big Bear Valley, have raised their young high in the trees of the San Bernardino National Forest. Through  live cameras, millions have witnessed their strength, devotion, and resilience — a living testament to the success of wildlife protection and the beauty of coexistence.

But their peace is now being threatened.

In recent weeks, the cameras have shown repeated instances of people going off-trail and entering the sensitive nesting and roosting area where Jackie and Shadow live. These human intrusions are not only distressing to watch, but they may also violate federal law — specifically, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668–668d), which prohibits any act that “disturbs” a bald eagle by interfering with its normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior.

With Jackie and Shadow’s return to their nest for the upcoming breeding season, this area must be treated as the critical habitat it is — not a tourist attraction or off-trail access point.

OUR REQUEST 

We, the undersigned, respectfully urge the U.S. Forest Service, CDFW, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to take immediate steps to:

1-Establish a restricted protection zone around Jackie and Shadow’s nest and roosting area, ALWAYS  
2- Prohibit off-trail public access within that zone to prevent disturbance to the eagles and their habitat - 
3-Post clear signage near relevant trailheads informing visitors of restricted access and explaining the importance of protecting the eagles.
3-Increase ranger presence or monitoring to deter violations and ensure compliance with federal wildlife protection laws

WHY THIS MATTERS

Jackie and Shadow have captured hearts worldwide — not only as a symbol of love and loyalty but as a story of survival and environmental stewardship. The live cameras have brought their world to millions, teaching respect for nature and inspiring people of all ages.

To see their sanctuary disrespected by careless off-trail visitors is devastating. Each disturbance threatens their safety and could drive them away from the nest they’ve called home for years.

Protecting them is not just an emotional plea — it’s a legal and moral responsibility

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