Jackie’s visit to the Big Bear eagle nest on January 23, 2026, began quietly in the early afternoon. At first, there were no obvious signs of what was about to happen. She landed in the nest and spent her time carefully surveying her surroundings, alert and attentive as clouds drifted past and sunlight broke through in short intervals.
What followed was an unhurried, deliberate hour that reflected just how tuned in Jackie was to the nest and the moment ahead.
Watch Live ← Nest Cam | Approach Cam
A Slow and Focused Afternoon Visit
Once settled in the nest, Jackie began visually checking the area around her, pausing often to look outward before returning her attention to the nest bowl. She rearranged grass and shifted a few sticks, making small but purposeful adjustments. Each movement seemed thoughtful, as though she was testing the nest’s readiness.
Throughout the visit, Jackie repeatedly dug into the nest bowl, shaping and reshaping the soft lining beneath her. She stood up, sat back down, then repeated the process again. These movements continued steadily, without urgency, as wind gusts moved through the tree and patches of sun warmed the nest between passing clouds.
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The Moment the Egg Was Laid
After nearly an hour in the nest, Jackie finally settled low into the bowl. This time, she did not rise again.
In that quiet moment, Jackie laid her first egg of the 2026 nesting season.
The nest, which had been carefully prepared over weeks of deliveries and adjustments, now held its most important addition. Jackie remained calm and composed, her body language reflecting completion rather than surprise. What began as a routine visit had gently transformed into the official start of a new season.
What Happens Next at the Big Bear Eagle Nest
With the first egg now laid, the nesting season enters a new phase. Jackie will continue to spend time incubating while still leaving the nest periodically to feed and stretch. Shadow is expected to support her by providing food and guarding the area.
A second egg often follows about two to three days after the first. While nature does not follow a strict schedule, viewers may see another egg appear around January 25 or January 26 if conditions remain favorable.
When Will the Egg Hatch?
Bald eagle eggs typically hatch after about 35 days of incubation. Based on today’s lay date, Jackie’s first egg could hatch toward the end of February, around February 26 or 27. Weather, incubation consistency, and natural variables all play a role, so timing can vary slightly.
For now, the focus shifts to steady incubation and continued care as the nest settles into this important stage.
A New Chapter Begins
Jackie’s calm, methodical afternoon at the Big Bear eagle nest offered a front-row view of one of the most meaningful moments of the season. The careful preparation, the repeated checks, and the patience she displayed all led to a single quiet outcome that signals new life ahead.
As the days progress, this nest will continue to tell its story one moment at a time.
This live cam experience is made possible by Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV).
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jackie lay her first egg in 2026?
Jackie laid her first egg of the 2026 nesting season on January 23, 2026, during an early afternoon visit to the nest.
How long was Jackie at the nest before laying the egg?
Jackie spent about an hour in the nest, repeatedly adjusting materials and shaping the nest bowl before laying the egg.
When could Jackie lay a second egg?
If typical patterns hold, a second egg may be laid about two to three days after the first, possibly around January 25 or January 26.
When might the first egg hatch?
Bald eagle eggs usually hatch after about 35 days of incubation. This egg could hatch in late February, around February 26 or 27.
Will Jackie stay on the nest all the time now?
Jackie will spend more time incubating but will still leave periodically to feed and take short breaks, with Shadow helping incubate too.
