Join the Fun: Help Name Jackie and Shadow’s New Eaglets in Big Bear!
Big Bear Bald Eagles Seek Names for New Eaglets
LOS ANGELES – Big Bear’s iconic bald eagle pair, Jackie and Shadow, are nurturing two eaglets that recently hatched in their mountain nest. The eaglets, which arrived on April 4 and 5, 2026, are the latest additions following a challenging start to the season when the couple lost their first clutch of eggs.
In a show of community spirit, the Friends of Big Bear Valley has launched a naming contest for the eaglets. Submissions are open until April 26 and require a small donation to support the nonprofit’s 24/7 livestream of the nest.
"We want the community to be part of their story," a spokesperson for the organization explained. "Every season we root for this little family to overcome obstacles, and this contest is a fun way to engage everyone."
The eaglets, currently referred to as Chick 1 and Chick 2, are exhibiting distinct personalities. Chick 1 is noted for being slightly darker and lower in the pecking order, while its sibling has been described as "sassy" by nest observers. Both chicks are developing "wingers," preening their feathers, and enjoying larger portions of fish provided by their parents.
Naming the eaglets has become a cherished tradition in the Big Bear community. Last year, names for the previous brood—Sunny and Gizmo—were submitted by the public and ultimately chosen by local third-graders.
As the contest progresses, a computer will select finalists from all submissions. These names will then be presented to third-graders in Big Bear Valley, who will cast the final votes to determine the official names.
The Friends of Big Bear Valley emphasizes that their website is the exclusive platform to submit name suggestions, which must be gender-neutral as the sex of the chicks is not yet identifiable. Donations for entry typically range from $5 for one name to $25 for ten entries.
The eaglet naming contest not only fosters community involvement but also serves as a fundraiser to maintain the live stream that captures their developing lives.
