Jackie Appears Free of Fishing Line After Concern at the Nest
Concern quickly turned to relief as Jackie the bald eagle returned to the nest appearing free of fishing line that had previously been caught in her beak and mouth. Jackie was first observed with the line on December 26, 2025, prompting widespread worry due to the serious risks fishing line poses to birds of prey. When she returned to the nest again on December 27, the line was no longer visible, suggesting the issue may have resolved naturally.
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This video documents both moments, first when the line was present and later when it appeared to be gone, offering important visual confirmation for those closely following the nest.
Jackie’s calm behavior and ability to continue normal nest activity brought reassurance that she had not suffered lasting harm. While it is impossible to say with absolute certainty how or when the line was removed, her return without visible obstruction was a welcome sight for everyone watching.
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Why Fishing Line Is So Dangerous for Eagles
Fishing line is one of the most common and dangerous forms of debris affecting raptors. It can wrap around beaks, talons, wings, or necks, potentially causing injury, infection, or even starvation if the bird cannot eat properly. Eagles are especially vulnerable because they often collect nesting materials from shorelines and fishing areas, unknowingly bringing hazardous items back to the nest.
Situations like Jackie’s highlight how even a small piece of discarded line can become a serious threat. The fact that the line appears to be gone does not erase the risk, but it does serve as a reminder of how resilient these birds can be when circumstances allow.
Jackie and Shadow Continue Nest Preparations
With the fishing line no longer visible, Jackie was able to resume nestorations alongside Shadow. This period is critical as the pair prepares for the upcoming breeding season, and uninterrupted nest work plays an important role in egg safety and chick survival.
Observers will continue to monitor Jackie closely in the coming days, watching for any signs of lingering issues. For now, her return to normal behavior is an encouraging development and a moment of collective relief.
A Reminder About Responsible Fishing Practices
This incident underscores the importance of properly disposing of fishing line and tackle. Monofilament line does not biodegrade easily and remains a long-term hazard for wildlife. Using designated recycling bins, cutting line into small pieces before disposal, and retrieving lost gear whenever possible are simple actions that can prevent situations like this from happening again.
Jackie’s experience serves as both a hopeful update and a cautionary lesson about how human activity directly affects wildlife.
This is good news! Last year I showed my 5th grade students all the live streaming. We watched the eggs hatch, until they flew the coop…so to speak. They were so interested in the entire cycle and they learned how important it is for humans to be better stewards of wildlife.
Thank you!
That is the best lesson they can learn. Thank you
Amazing video. Thank HNF! So relieved that Jackie was able to get rid of the hazard…
I thank God that she is all right. This is happening too often. I am so tired of our precious wildlife suffering at the hands of, or as a result of, the actions taken by humans. I grew up on a fishing boat from the time that I was six months old, and I can tell you that there are times that a fish will bite a line with a hook I it, or a lure will be cast into a tree and be irretrievable, but for the most part, aside from the inherent cruelty of fishing in and of… Read more »
I’m so glad the fishing line is gone from Jackie! Thanks for the update!
❤️🙏🦅
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