Far from the familiar pines, open water and the mountain air of Big Bear, Jackie underwent a contrast CT scan and bone marrow biopsy on August 5. By the end of the day, she was back in recovery, receiving supplemental oxygen while her medical team searched for the reason her body has struggled to recover.

Watch Live → Scroll down to the comments for the latest community updates.

Both procedures required anesthesia, and Jackie came through them well. Ojai Raptor Center’s veterinary team, scientific advisory council and consulting specialists are now reviewing the new findings alongside her previous test results.

No diagnosis has been announced. Additional laboratory work remains pending, leaving Jackie’s care team with new evidence to study but no final answer yet.

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What Jackie’s CT Scan and Bone Marrow Biopsy Could Reveal

Jackie’s illness has already demanded extensive testing, treatment and consultation. Still, important questions remain. The contrast CT scan allowed the veterinary team to gather more detailed images and examine areas that may not have appeared clearly during previous evaluations. The bone marrow biopsy gave specialists another way to investigate the problems affecting Jackie’s blood and overall condition.

Jackie’s CT scan and bone marrow biopsy marked the deepest stage yet in the search for the cause of her illness. They do not automatically reveal a simple cause or guarantee an immediate treatment plan. Instead, the findings must be studied alongside Jackie’s earlier scans, blood work, treatment response and other diagnostic results.

Jackie Recovers After Another Difficult Day

Jackie’s care has required repeated handling, examinations and medical procedures, a world far removed from the freedom that has defined her life in Big Bear. On Wednesday, trained caregivers held her securely in towels while preparing and supporting her through the latest testing.

Jackie is usually seen commanding the nest, soaring above the lake or standing beside Shadow with the wind moving through her feathers. In the recovery footage, her eyes remained bright and alert. She emerged from anesthesia and was returned to her enclosure for one more day of care and another opportunity for her medical team to understand what her body needs.

Ojai Raptor Center has not reported a sudden decline or announced a final diagnosis. The confirmed update remains narrow but meaningful: Jackie tolerated the procedures, recovered well from anesthesia and remains under close veterinary care.

No Final Diagnosis Has Been Announced

August 5 did not bring the answer everyone hoped to hear.

It brought new evidence.

Jackie’s specialists must now study the CT images, examine the biopsy findings and compare them with the results already collected during her treatment. Pending laboratory work may add more pieces to the medical puzzle. Until that process is complete, the cause of Jackie’s condition remains unconfirmed.

There is also no announced release date or timetable for her return to Big Bear. Any decision about Jackie’s future will depend on her diagnosis, response to treatment, physical condition and ability to function safely as a wild bald eagle. For now, the medical team is allowing science to guide each next step.

A Network of Specialists Continues Fighting for Jackie

Jackie’s treatment has brought together wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, scientists and outside specialists. Ojai Raptor Center Executive Director Chris Eksteen, Dr. Kathryn Rasp and the center’s entire team continue overseeing her daily care. The organization is also consulting with its scientific advisory council and other specialists as they review the newest findings.

Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group in Ventura has supported the effort as well, including Dr. Higgins and the hospital’s staff. Earlier in Jackie’s treatment, CALM Zoo and its resident bald eagle Spirit played an extraordinary role. Spirit provided blood for the transfusion Jackie needed as the team worked to stabilize her.

Each organization has contributed a different piece of the response. Together, they have created a medical safety net beneath an eagle accustomed to holding the sky on her own.

The Distance Between Jackie’s Two Worlds

Only weeks ago, Jackie’s life centered on Big Bear. She and Shadow had raised Sandy and Luna through another demanding nesting season. Jackie guarded the nest, delivered food, faced intruders and remained part of the daily rhythm of the territory she has ruled for years.

Now, that world waits beyond the walls of a recovery enclosure.

Her days revolve around oxygen support, examinations, laboratory results and the quiet routines of wildlife medicine. Trained hands now guide her through procedures far removed from the storms, territorial confrontations and long days of raising young eagles in Big Bear.

She cannot choose the next test or understand why human hands must hold her. She can only meet each moment with the instincts and endurance that have carried her through life in Big Bear.

Her caregivers must carry the rest.

Jackie’s Next Update Will Depend on the Results

Ojai Raptor Center plans to release a more comprehensive update after its team has reviewed the new findings and received the remaining laboratory results. Until then, speculation cannot replace a diagnosis.

The contrast CT scan and bone marrow biopsy may help specialists identify patterns that earlier testing could not fully explain. They may also help the team narrow the possibilities and determine which treatment options remain appropriate.

By Wednesday night, Jackie was awake after another demanding medical day.

Her specialists have new images to study, tissue to examine and previous results to reconsider. The answers may not arrive all at once, but the search has moved forward.

Far from her nest, her territory and Shadow, Jackie remains surrounded by people working carefully on her behalf.

The Lady of the Lake is still here. ♥️

And her medical team is still searching for the path that gives her the best possible chance to rise again.

The video was recorded and shared on YouTube by Lady Hawk. Those wishing to support the care and rehabilitation of Jackie and other bald eagle patients can donate through the Ojai Raptor Center Bald Eagle Rehabilitation Campaign.

Frequently Asked Questions

What procedures did Jackie undergo on August 5?

Jackie received a contrast CT scan and underwent a bone marrow biopsy at Ojai Raptor Center.

How did Jackie respond to anesthesia?

Ojai Raptor Center reported that Jackie recovered well from anesthesia. She returned to her recovery enclosure and received supplemental oxygen.

Have the tests revealed what is wrong with Jackie?

No final diagnosis has been announced. The veterinary team, scientific advisory council and consulting specialists are reviewing the new findings alongside Jackie’s previous results. Additional laboratory work remains pending.

Is Jackie returning to Big Bear soon?

No release date has been announced. Her future will depend on the diagnostic results, treatment options, recovery and ability to function safely in the wild.

Who is involved in Jackie’s care?

Ojai Raptor Center leads Jackie’s care with support from veterinary specialists, its scientific advisory council, Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group in Ventura and CALM Zoo. Resident bald eagle Spirit previously provided blood for Jackie’s transfusion.

On August 5, 2026, the Sydney Olympic Park sea eagles welcomed the morning with Lady resting over two eggs and Dad perched above their nest in Sydney Olympic Park, New South Wales, Australia. At around 6:30 a.m., the pair lifted their voices in a stirring duet before Dad hopped down and crossed the nest toward her. When Lady finally stood, one small, very relatable moment made the handoff even sweeter.

Watch Lady and Dad live on the Sydney Olympic Park sea eagle nest cam.

Sydney Olympic Park Sea Eagles Begin With A Dawn Duet

Daylight had only begun to stretch through the forest when the Sydney Olympic Park sea eagles, Lady and Dad, filled the towering branches with their voices. Lady remained tucked over the eggs while Dad stood watch from a branch above her, giving the scene the comfortable feeling of two longtime partners starting another day together.

White-bellied Sea-Eagle pairs often call in unison during the breeding season. These shared vocal exchanges can help a pair maintain its connection, announce its presence, and coordinate activity around the nest. Their duet carried hints of all three as Lady answered from below and Dad called from his perch overhead. Their voices broke through the stillness with the kind of wild, ringing power that only sea eagles can deliver. Then the singing stopped, Dad hopped down from the branch, and the morning conversation became a changing of the guard.

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Dad Drops In For The Early Shift

Dad hopped down from the branch and landed at the nest with purpose. He did not bring breakfast this time. Instead, he walked toward Lady as she continued to cover the eggs beneath her warm feathers. His message seemed clear. Dad had arrived to take over.

Lady did not spring up the moment he appeared. She stayed settled while he moved closer, keeping the eggs covered until her replacement stood nearby. The exchange unfolded without hurry or confusion. After many seasons together, the pair appeared to understand the process down to the smallest step. Neither eagle rushed the transition, and the eggs remained protected through every careful movement.

Dad waited. Lady rose slowly. Then one tiny wobble turned a routine handoff into the sweetest moment of the morning.

Lady Gets Her Sea Legs Back

Lady slowly lifted herself from the nest bowl and paused above the eggs. As she found her footing, she swayed briefly, looking a little like anyone rising from a chair after sitting far too long. Those long incubation stretches ask plenty from her. She must hold her body in a low, careful position while keeping the eggs warm and protected, so a touch of stiffness after getting up hardly seems surprising. Still, Lady’s slightly shaky start added a wonderfully relatable beat to an otherwise polished handoff.

She quickly steadied herself, spread her broad wings, and flew from the nest. The unsteadiness passed almost immediately, and she left with no further hesitation. At the Sydney Olympic Park nest, the brief wobble became a small but memorable part of an otherwise smooth morning exchange. Lady had earned the chance to move, feed, and reset while Dad remained nearby, ready for the next shift.

Sydney Olympic Park Sea Eagles Make A Smooth Handoff

Once Lady departed, Dad stepped into the nest bowl and lowered himself over the eggs. He adjusted his position, settled his feathers around the clutch, and took charge of the morning watch. The eggs remained uncovered for only a few moments. Lady had waited until Dad stood close, and he moved into place as soon as she flew away. Their careful timing offered another glimpse of the teamwork carrying this nesting season forward.

Lady handles most of the incubation, but Dad’s turns give her essential time away from the nest. He may not remain as long as she does, yet every spell on the eggs allows her to stretch, feed, preen, and restore her energy while the clutch stays protected. White-bellied Sea-Eagles typically lay one or two eggs, and both parents contribute during the breeding season. Incubation usually lasts around 41 days, although each nest follows its own calendar. Because Lady and Dad delayed steady incubation early on, the first signs of hatching may arrive later than a simple count from the laying dates would suggest.

The Nest Inches Closer To Its Biggest Moment

A duet, a few measured footsteps, one wobbly rise, and a smooth takeover may seem like a small chapter in the season. Yet these quiet exchanges keep everything moving forward, giving Lady time away while Dad protects the two lives developing beneath him. Their timing speaks to the strength of a partnership shaped by years of instinct and experience. No confusion. No scramble. Just two seasoned parents moving through a rhythm they know by heart. That quiet teamwork matters more with each passing day, as every shared shift carries the nest closer to the moment that could change everything.

The Sydney Olympic Park sea eagles now move through each day with two eggs and a growing sense of anticipation beneath them. For now, Dad rests over the eggs, Lady takes a well-earned break, and the forest settles after their dawn duet. But beneath Dad’s feathers, two tiny lives are growing. Soon, the morning may belong to two brand-new voices.

EagleCAM / BirdLife Australia Southern NSW makes this live cam experience possible. Video clip recorded and shared on YouTube by Bea’s Binoculars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Sydney Olympic Park sea eagle nest?

Lady and Dad’s nest is located in Newington Nature Reserve at Sydney Olympic Park in New South Wales, Australia. The protected area provides tall nesting trees and access to nearby wetlands and waterways.

Why did Lady wobble when she stood up?

Lady appeared slightly unsteady after rising from the eggs. She may have felt stiff after spending a long stretch in a low incubation posture, although the brief movement does not confirm the cause. She quickly regained her balance and flew from the nest without visible difficulty.

Do both Lady and Dad incubate the eggs?

Yes. Lady handles most of the incubation, while Dad takes regular turns that give her time to feed, move, and rest. Their coordinated changeovers help keep the clutch protected.

Why do Lady and Dad duet at the nest?

Paired sea eagles use shared calls to communicate, strengthen their connection, and respond to activity within their territory. On this morning, their duet came shortly before Dad approached the nest bowl and relieved Lady.

When could Lady and Dad’s eggs hatch?

Lady laid the first egg on July 3, 2026, and the second followed a few days later. White-bellied Sea-Eagle eggs generally hatch after about 41 days of incubation, but the pair’s delayed start could move the expected hatch window beyond a simple count from the laying dates.

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Wensi takes over the trout in a breakfast scene recorded at the Hellgate Osprey nest on August 2, 2026. Clark swept toward the platform carrying the large fish, and the quiet morning vanished in an instant. Iris called. Wensi answered. By the time he touched down, both birds were reaching for breakfast.

What followed was part family scramble, part growing-up lesson. Wensi grabbed for the fish, lost its grip and toppled backward while Iris claimed the meal. Later, the young osprey returned to the trout and began tearing off bites alone.

That was the real milestone. Wensi self-fed at Hellgate Osprey nest, taking another visible step away from total dependence and toward life beyond the platform.

Watch Live <— nest and approach cams

Clark Arrives With Breakfast

Iris and Wensi were already vocal as Clark approached. Their calls rose together while he crossed the final stretch toward the nest with the trout clutched in his talons.

He landed directly in front of them, but there was little time for ceremony. Wensi lunged toward the fish. Iris reached in almost simultaneously. For a few crowded seconds, Clark was still trying to free his talons while mother and chick pulled at the catch from the other side.

Wensi held on with determination but not quite enough balance. The young osprey slipped, fell backward and landed on its rump as Iris secured the trout.

Clark stayed only long enough to complete the delivery. Once the fish was safely in the nest, he lifted away and left Iris to take charge of breakfast.

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Iris Takes Over the Meal

Iris settled over the trout and began tearing away small pieces. Wensi stood beside her, chirping and waiting for each bite.

The scene still carried the familiar rhythm of earlier weeks. Iris prepared the food. Wensi accepted it. Yet the young bird no longer looked helpless beside the meal.

Wensi watched closely, shifted nearer and repeatedly showed interest in handling the trout. The chick was no longer satisfied with simply waiting to be fed. It wanted control.

Wensi Returns to the Trout

Later that morning, the nest looked different. Iris was no longer placing every bite into Wensi’s beak. The young osprey stood over the remains of the fish and began working at it alone.

Wensi lowered its head, hooked its beak into the flesh and pulled. The first attempts were awkward. The trout shifted. The pieces did not always separate cleanly. Wensi adjusted its stance and tried again.

Then the effort began to pay off.

Small bites came free, and Wensi swallowed them without Iris’s help. The chick that had tumbled backward during the first contest was now standing over the same meal and feeding itself.

A Skill Wensi Will Need Beyond the Nest

Self-feeding may look simple from a distance, but it demands control. An osprey must pin slippery prey beneath its feet, keep its balance and use its hooked beak to tear away pieces small enough to swallow.

Wensi is still learning how those movements fit together. Each pull at the fish strengthens the coordination that will matter after fledging, when meals will no longer arrive ready to eat.

At about seven and a half weeks old, Wensi is approaching a period of rapid change. Wing exercises will become more powerful. Time away from the nest will increase. Eventually, the young osprey will need to catch and handle fish without Iris nearby.

This breakfast offered an early glimpse of that future.

The Hellgate Chick Finds Its Voice

The food was not the only sign of Wensi’s growth. The chick’s calls filled the opening moments of the video, rising alongside Iris as Clark approached.

Wensi’s voice has grown stronger and more insistent.

At moments, the young bird sounds strikingly similar to Iris, especially when a fish appears over the nest rail.

The chorus gave Clark little doubt about where to land or what his family expected from him.

One Breakfast, Two Versions of Wensi

At the start of the meal, Wensi was the eager chick who grabbed too quickly and fell backward. By the end, the young osprey was standing over the trout and pulling off bites alone.

Both moments belonged to the same stage of growing up. The stumble showed how much Wensi still has to learn. The self-feeding showed how quickly those lessons are taking hold.

Clark brought the trout. Iris handled the first part of breakfast. Wensi supplied the surprise.

For the Hellgate Osprey family, it was another ordinary meal transformed into something larger: a young bird discovering that the fish beneath its feet was no longer only food from its parents. It was practice for the life waiting beyond the nest.

Cornell Lab Bird Cams recorded and shared this video clip on YouTube.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Wensi self-feed at Hellgate Osprey nest?

Yes. Iris fed Wensi first, but the young osprey later tore off and swallowed pieces of trout without help.

Why did Wensi fall backward?

Wensi lost its grip while pulling on the trout during the brief struggle with Iris.

Why is self-feeding important?

As a result, young ospreys must learn to hold fish, tear away manageable pieces and eat without help from a parent.

How old was Wensi on August 2?

Wensi was about seven and a half weeks old.

Is Wensi close to fledging?

Wensi is nearing the stage when young ospreys begin making their first flights. The timing varies with each bird.

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August 4, 2026, began with Star and Spangle standing together inside the Dunrovin osprey nest in Lolo, Montana, but Star’s first flight at the Dunrovin osprey nest was only moments away.

Watch Live <— nest and approach cams

Star, identified as OE4, stood on the right side of the large stick nest overlooking the surrounding farm fields. Beside her was Spangle, the blue-banded young osprey known as OE5.

At first, the siblings appeared settled. Then Star began flapping. Her wings stretched across the nest as she repeatedly lifted and lowered them, rehearsing the powerful movements she would need in the air. Each burst looked more confident than the last. A little more than two minutes into the video, practice suddenly became flight.

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Star Launches From the Dunrovin Osprey Nest

At approximately 2:05, Star pushed away from the nest and flew out of the camera’s view to the right.

There was no long hesitation at the edge.

One moment, both young ospreys were together. The next, Star was airborne and Spangle was standing alone. The departure marked Star’s first successful fledge from the Dunrovin osprey nest.

Spangle watched in the direction Star had flown and began calling frequently. The young osprey moved around the nest while continuing to look beyond the sticks, apparently tracking the activity outside the camera’s view. Star’s flight could not be seen once she left the frame, but she remained away from the nest for nearly three minutes.

For a newly fledged osprey, those first moments away from the nest can involve a completely new set of challenges. The bird must coordinate powerful wingbeats, maintain balance, adjust direction and prepare for a safe landing. Star had spent weeks strengthening her wings. Now she was using them beyond the nest for the first time.

Spangle Waits Alone After Star’s First Flight

While Star explored the air around Dunrovin Ranch, Spangle remained behind.

The difference inside the nest was immediate.

Only minutes earlier, the two siblings had been standing side by side. After Star’s departure, Spangle appeared alert and vocal, repeatedly looking toward the area where Star had disappeared.

Young ospreys often continue calling and watching nearby activity after a sibling or parent leaves the nest. The behavior may help them remain aware of movements around their territory. Spangle had already reached this milestone first. OE5 completed a first flight on August 2, becoming the first of the two 2026 Dunrovin osprey chicks to fledge. Two days later, it was Star’s turn to leave the nest behind. But the separation did not last long.

Star Returns Nearly Three Minutes Later

At approximately 4:52 in the video, Star returned. The young osprey flew back into view and landed on the left side of the nest, ending an inaugural flight that lasted about two minutes and 47 seconds. The landing brought the siblings together again.

Star settled inside the familiar nest after her first trip through the open sky, while Spangle remained nearby. What began as another morning of wing practice had become one of the biggest milestones of Star’s young life. Her departure was exciting. Her return made the moment complete.

Both Dunrovin Osprey Chicks Have Now Fledged

With Star’s successful flight, both of the young ospreys raised at the Dunrovin nest in 2026 have now fledged. Fledging does not mean the young birds are immediately independent. Star and Spangle may continue returning to the nest as they strengthen their flight skills, practice landings and learn more about life beyond the platform.

They may also continue relying on the adult ospreys for food while their hunting abilities develop. Catching fish requires far more than simply flying over water. Young ospreys must learn how to judge distance, control a steep dive, extend their feet at the correct moment and lift a slippery fish from the surface.

Those skills take time. For now, the nest remains an important place to rest, receive food and reunite after short flights. Star’s first journey lasted less than three minutes, but it opened an entirely new chapter.

The nest that once held two flightless chicks now holds two young ospreys capable of leaving, circling through the Montana sky and finding their way home again.

The footage was recorded and shared on YouTube by Red Wing. The live osprey experience is provided by Days at Dunrovin.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Star fledge from the Dunrovin osprey nest?

Star, also known as OE4, fledged from the Dunrovin osprey nest on August 4, 2026.

How long was Star away from the nest?

Star was away for approximately two minutes and 47 seconds before returning.

Who is the other young osprey in the nest?

The other young osprey is Spangle, also known as OE5. Spangle fledged two days earlier, on August 2, 2026.

July 13, 2026, turned an evening walk through Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood into Jimothy the raccoon’s worldwide debut. At first, the small, round animal moving beneath a parked car looked almost like a cat.

Then Jimothy turned and revealed the dark mask across his face. He was clearly a raccoon.

But he looked unlike any raccoon most people had ever seen. Jimothy had a compact body, a curved back and a shortened tail. Within days, millions of people had watched him shuffle through the neighborhood. Then older footage revealed the most powerful part of his story.

Jimothy had once been a tiny, clumsy kit struggling to keep up with his family. However, his mother and siblings never left him behind.

video: HAPP – Story on YouTube

Jimothy the Raccoon Had Help From the Start

Ballard resident Ben Trammell had known about Jimothy long before the rest of the world. According to Trammell, Jimothy was born among cedar trees beside a neighboring home. His raccoon family regularly crossed through Trammell’s backyard while heading out on their nightly trips.

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Jimothy was much smaller than the other kits. His unusual body also made balancing and climbing more difficult. As the family crossed fences and other narrow surfaces, Jimothy sometimes struggled to follow.

But the other raccoons stayed close. His mother and siblings patiently helped keep him from falling. When Jimothy could not manage part of the journey, they sometimes carried him. The family did not treat him as an outsider. Instead, they adjusted their movements and gave the smallest member more time.

That support may have helped Jimothy survive one of the most dangerous stages of life for any wild raccoon. Young raccoons depend on their mother for food, protection and the skills needed to navigate their surroundings. Jimothy faced those normal challenges with a body that worked differently. Still, he kept moving.

A Different Body Without a Confirmed Diagnosis

Many people describe Jimothy as having short spine syndrome. However, no veterinarian has examined him. Therefore, his exact condition remains unconfirmed. Wildlife and veterinary experts believe Jimothy likely has a congenital spinal malformation similar to short spine syndrome. The rare condition can prevent parts of the spine from developing normally, creating a shortened back, reduced neck and compact appearance.

Jimothy’s curved body and short tail appear consistent with that type of condition. Still, experts cannot make a final diagnosis from photographs or recordings alone.

More importantly, recent sightings show Jimothy moving through yards, crossing fences and exploring the Ballard neighborhood. His movements may look different. Yet he appears to have learned how to work with the body he has. One Washington State University veterinary expert said reaching this stage suggests Jimothy has been managing and adapting to life in the wild.

That adaptability is common among raccoons. In another recent encounter, a raccoon waited until two young bald eagles flew away before moving in to collect their leftover food.

A Tiny Raccoon Becomes a Seattle Celebrity

Jimothy’s rise began after Seattle resident Kiana Hall spotted him near the Ballard Goodwill during an evening walk. She recorded a brief encounter and gave the mysterious little animal a name that somehow fit. Jimothy.

The footage quickly spread across social media. Meanwhile, Ballard residents began searching older backyard recordings and sharing their own sightings. Those discoveries confirmed that Jimothy was real and had been living in the neighborhood long before his sudden fame.

Soon, his round silhouette appeared on shirts, artwork, tattoos and a Ballard mural. The Seattle Mariners joined the celebration, while the University of Washington playfully awarded “Dr. Jimothy” an honorary degree.

Then Seattle made the celebration official. On July 26, hundreds of people gathered in Ballard as city council members proclaimed the summer of 2026 “Jimothy Summer.” Local artists filled the event with paintings, sculptures and other tributes to the neighborhood’s newest legend.

Jimothy’s fame also produced something more lasting. An original painting inspired by the raccoon raised approximately $6,500 for the Ballard Food Bank. Several major companies later joined the fundraising effort.

The Best Way to Protect Jimothy

Jimothy may have millions of admirers, but he remains a wild raccoon. That means people should not search for his exact location, approach him or attempt to touch him. They also should not leave food outside for Jimothy or his family.

Feeding raccoons can make them dependent on people and draw them closer to roads, pets and other dangers. Public Health – Seattle & King County advises residents to never feed raccoons, keep pet food indoors and secure outdoor garbage cans.

Anyone who finds a raccoon that appears injured, trapped or seriously ill should contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator rather than attempting a rescue alone. Jimothy does not need crowds following him through Ballard. He needs space.

His Family Knew His Value First

Millions of people met Jimothy through one brief encounter beneath a parked car. His family met him first. Before the murals, shirts and city proclamation, there was only a small raccoon trying to cross a backyard fence.

When Jimothy struggled, the others stayed near. When he could not keep up, they helped. Jimothy’s body made his path different. It did not remove his place beside his mother and siblings. Now, the compact little survivor continues moving through Ballard on his own terms.

Seattle can celebrate Jimothy best by giving him enough room to remain exactly what he has always been. Wild.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition does Jimothy the raccoon have?

Jimothy is believed to have a congenital spinal malformation similar to short spine syndrome. However, no veterinarian has examined him, so his exact condition has not been confirmed.

Where does Jimothy live?

Jimothy has been seen in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. People should not share or search for his precise location because unwanted attention could place him in danger.

Did Jimothy’s family really help him?

A Ballard resident who watched Jimothy grow up reported that his mother and siblings stayed patient with him, helped prevent falls and sometimes carried him when he struggled to keep up.

Is Jimothy fully grown?

Older footage shows Jimothy as a very small kit, while recent recordings show him older and moving independently. His exact age has not been publicly confirmed.

Should people feed Jimothy?

No. Wildlife officials advise people never to feed raccoons. The safest way to support Jimothy is to secure food and garbage, keep pets away and admire him from a distance.

August 2, 2026, began with two young ospreys standing together inside their nest at Dunrovin Ranch in Lolo, Montana, but OE5’s first flight would soon change the morning.

Then OE5 started bouncing.

The blue-banded osprey flapped hard, sprang above the nest and briefly floated over the sticks. Each jump carried OE5 a little higher until the young bird finally crossed an invisible line between practicing and flying. At approximately 6:46 a.m., OE5 lifted from the nest and sailed out of sight to the left. One osprey had fledged. The other suddenly had the nest to itself.

Watch Live <— nest and approach cams

OE5’s First Flight Leaves Its Sibling Watching

Before taking off, OE5 vigorously worked its wings and performed several high jumps from the nest floor. These exercises help young ospreys strengthen their flight muscles and practice controlling their long wings. Osprey chicks generally remain in the nest for about 50 to 55 days before making their first flight.

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This time, OE5 did not drop back onto the sticks. The young osprey rose into the Montana air and disappeared beyond the left side of the nest. OE4 remained behind and repeatedly looked toward the direction its sibling had flown. It created a wonderfully familiar scene: one youngster had taken the leap while the other appeared content to watch the experiment first.

But OE5’s biggest challenge was not leaving. It was coming home.

A Nearly Two-Minute Wait at Dunrovin Ranch

OE5 remained away from the nest for approximately one minute and 45 seconds during its first flight. That brief absence carried plenty of suspense. A first flight requires more than getting airborne. The young bird must also control its direction, find somewhere safe to turn or perch, and prepare for another landing.

First flights can be short, awkward journeys to a nearby branch or structure. Young ospreys gradually improve through repeated trips while continuing to return to their nest for food and rest. OE5, however, returned looking remarkably composed.

OE5 Sweeps Back Into View

At approximately 6:48 a.m., a dark shape appeared above the upper-left side of the nest. OE5 was back. The young osprey approached with its wings spread, lowered its feet and descended directly toward the familiar platform. OE5 then touched down beside OE4 without tumbling, colliding or overshooting the nest.

The landing looked almost too polished for a beginner. One moment, OE5 was a nestling practicing high jumps. Less than two minutes later, the young osprey returned as Dunrovin Ranch’s newest fledgling.

OE4’s First Flight Could Happen Soon

As of August 4, 2026, OE4 has not yet fledged. However, OE5 and OE4 do not need to leave the nest on the same day. Differences in hatch times, physical development and confidence can separate sibling fledges by several days.

At Montana’s Hellgate osprey nest in 2024, one sibling fledged nine days before the other. Both later continued returning to the nest while developing their flight skills. OE4’s growing wing exercises and movements will provide clues as its own first flight approaches. For now, OE4 still has a front-row seat. Its sibling has already demonstrated the entire process: flap hard, trust the wings and remember where the nest is.

OE5 Continues Flying After First Fledge

OE5’s first successful flight was only the beginning. Since fledging, the young osprey has completed several additional flights away from the nest. Each trip gives OE5 another opportunity to improve balance, steering, endurance and landing control.

However, fledging does not mean OE5 has become independent. Young ospreys usually remain near their nesting territory and continue relying on their parents for fish while learning to fly and eventually hunt. This post-fledging training period can last several weeks. Winnie and Swoop still have work ahead of them. The adults must continue supporting two growing youngsters as OE5 explores beyond the nest and OE4 prepares to follow.

From Nest Jumps to Open Sky

For weeks, OE5’s world centered on a platform of sticks above Dunrovin Ranch. The young osprey ate, rested, watched its parents and slowly transformed its wings from oversized decorations into working flight equipment. Then came one final jump.

OE5 vanished into the open sky, leaving OE4 alone with the wind and an empty space where its sibling had been standing. But the absence did not last long. OE5 swept back into view, stretched out its feet and landed beside OE4 as though the nest had been calling the young osprey home. Now only one question remains. When will OE4 follow?

The footage was recorded and shared on YouTube by Red Wing. The live osprey experience is provided by Days at Dunrovin.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did OE5 fledge from the Dunrovin Ranch osprey nest?

OE5 made its first flight on August 2, 2026, at approximately 6:46 a.m. The young osprey returned to the nest less than two minutes later.

Which Dunrovin osprey chick fledged first?

OE5 became the first of the two 2026 Dunrovin Ranch osprey chicks to fledge.

Did OE5 return after its first flight?

Yes. OE5 returned after approximately one minute and 45 seconds and made a smooth landing beside OE4.

Has OE4 fledged yet?

As of August 4, 2026, OE4 has not fledged. However, the second young osprey could make its first flight soon.

Do young ospreys return to the nest after fledging?

Yes. Young ospreys commonly return to their nest for food and rest while practicing their flight and fishing skills. Their parents continue feeding them during this learning period.

How old are ospreys when they first fly?

Osprey chicks typically make their first flight after spending approximately 50 to 55 days in the nest, although the exact timing can vary.

On August 3, 2026, a Booted Eagle chick in Spain struts across the nest with newfound confidence. Dark feathers spread across its growing wings as the youngster stretches wide and launches into another enthusiastic round of flapping. Then Dad arrives with prey, and the chick reveals exactly how much instinct has already taken hold—and how much growing remains.

Watch Live <—— nest & approach cams

New Feathers Bring a Striking Transformation

The pale, downy chick from earlier in the season has already vividly transformed in its 26 days of life. New juvenile plumage now pushes through much of the remaining down, giving the youngster a sharper and more eagle-like appearance each day.

Its movements are changing, too, although grace has not quite caught up with growth. The chick lurches across the nest on oversized feet, pauses to regain its balance and then launches into another energetic flap of its wings. The result is equal parts impressive and comical. Long new feathers, loose coordination and sheer determination appear in every awkward step. Each burst of flapping shows off the growing wings and the strength building beneath them. Mom remains higher in the tree for much of the activity, chirping from above while the chick takes center stage below.

The wings promise majesty, but those oversized feet are still delivering the comedy.

Dad Delivers Prey and Instinct Takes Over

Everything shifts when Dad lands with prey. The chick rushes toward the delivery without hesitation. It reaches the food, lowers its body and spreads its wings across the meal. In just a few seconds, a quiet wing-practice session turns into a serious claim of ownership.

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This posture is known as mantling. Raptors use their wings and bodies to cover food and protect it from others nearby. For this Booted Eagle chick in Spain, the reaction appears immediate and entirely instinctive. No lesson is needed. Dad quickly leaves the nest, but the chick remains planted over the prey. Mom continues to call from nearby as the youngster guards its prize.

The Mantle Comes Naturally. Eating Does Not.

The chick knows how to claim the food, but eating it proves much more difficult. After holding the mantle for a while, the youngster lowers its head and begins to investigate the delivery. It tugs and pecks, but it makes little progress. The meal requires more strength and coordination than the chick can manage on its own at this stage. That contrast makes the moment especially memorable. The youngster carries itself like an adult when it covers the prey, yet the first real bite remains out of reach.

The instinct arrives early. The skill takes more time.

Mom does not rush down immediately. She stays nearby and continues chirping while the chick tests its beak against the prey. For a brief time, the youngster has the chance to work things out alone. Eventually, Mom hops down to the nest. She takes control of the food and begins tearing off manageable pieces. The chick quickly settles into the familiar rhythm of being fed. The youngster successfully claims Dad’s delivery, but Mom handles the difficult part—turning a guarded prize into an actual meal.

Confidence Arrives Before Experience

The delivery captures the chick at a remarkable stage of development. Its feathers look darker, its wings grow stronger and its movements carry more purpose. When dinner arrives, the youngster no longer hangs back. It steps forward and acts on instincts that seem to sharpen by the day. But Mom still knows where confidence ends and experience begins. She gives the chick time to test its beak and feet against the meal, then steps in when the task becomes too difficult. The youngster has not failed. It has simply reached the point where instinct can take it no farther without additional strength, coordination, and practice.

Every meal adds another piece to the lesson. The chick learns how to hold prey, where to pull and how much force to use. Those skills will come with time, but for now, Mom remains close enough to turn each bold attempt into something the chick can actually eat. Dad brings the prey. The chick claims it. Mom transforms it into a meal. This eaglet may strut around like it’s ready to run the nest, but one tricky meal proves that Mom is still needed to turn bold instincts into actual bites.

Directo Natura makes this live cam experience possible. Video clip recorded and shared on YouTube by Bea’s Binoculars.

FAQ

Where is the Booted Eagle nest located?

The nest sits high in the forests of Alto Tajo Natural Park in Spain.

What does mantling mean in birds of prey?

Mantling occurs when a raptor lowers its body and spreads its wings over food. The posture helps conceal the food and protect it from other birds nearby.

Can a Booted Eagle chick eat prey on its own?

The chick is beginning to peck and pull at prey, but it still relies on Mom to tear off manageable pieces. Its feeding skills will improve with strength, coordination and practice.

Why are the Booted Eagle chick’s feathers getting darker?

Juvenile feathers are replacing much of the chick’s pale down. Black and brown feathers now cover more of the wings, while warm brown coloring begins to appear across the chest.

Why did the Booted Eagle chick mantle Dad’s delivery?

The Booted Eagle chick in Spain reacts instinctively when Dad arrives with prey. It rushes forward and covers the food, even though it has not yet mastered tearing off bites without Mom’s help.

The latest update on Big Bear Eagle Jackie has brought the difficult news that everyone following her recovery hoped would not come.

On August 3, 2026, Ojai Raptor Center announced that Jackie’s packed cell volume, or PCV, had dropped to 13%. According to the center, the decline means her anemia has worsened since its previous update.

Jackie’s veterinary team is now moving quickly to expand its search for answers. Additional advanced diagnostic testing is underway, while the team has also requested expedited laboratory testing.

However, the cause of Jackie’s condition remains unknown.

Watch Live ← Big Bear nest & approach cams

Jackie’s Latest Bloodwork Brings a Difficult Setback

Jackie remains under specialized veterinary care as Patient 26-519 at Ojai Raptor Center. Her latest bloodwork showed that her PCV had fallen to 13%. PCV measures the proportion of blood made up of red blood cells. Therefore, a lower result can indicate worsening anemia.

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The new result marks a setback in Jackie’s recovery. However, the center has not released a new prognosis or announced what the decline could mean for her long-term outlook. Instead, her veterinary team is gathering more information before determining the next steps in her treatment. That careful approach is important because the PCV result confirms that Jackie remains anemic, but it does not identify the reason her red blood cell level has fallen.

Advanced Diagnostic Testing Is Now Underway

Ojai Raptor Center said its veterinary team responded quickly after receiving Jackie’s latest bloodwork. The team has started additional advanced diagnostic testing. It has also requested expedited laboratory testing to help specialists better understand her condition.

“At this stage, we do not have further answers to share,” the center explained in its August 3 update.

That means no underlying cause has been confirmed. The center has not announced what each new test will examine. It has also not released new details about Jackie’s medications, supportive care or possible future procedures. Until the veterinary team releases those results, claims about a specific disease or cause remain speculation.

Jackie’s Anemia Remains a Medical Mystery

Anemia describes a reduced amount of circulating red blood cells. However, anemia is not a complete diagnosis by itself. Veterinarians must still determine why the red blood cell level has fallen and whether the body is losing cells, destroying them or failing to replace them normally.

Jackie’s doctors must interpret her PCV alongside the rest of her bloodwork, physical examinations, clinical condition and diagnostic results. Consequently, one laboratory number cannot answer every question about her condition. The latest result does confirm that Jackie’s anemia has worsened. Beyond that, Ojai Raptor Center has not announced a cause or offered a prediction about her recovery.

No New Treatment Decisions Have Been Announced

Jackie previously received a blood transfusion with help from Spirit, a resident bald eagle at the California Living Museum, commonly known as CALM Zoo. That transfusion became possible through cooperation among Ojai Raptor Center, CALM Zoo and the other veterinary professionals involved in Jackie’s care.

However, the August 3 update did not announce another transfusion. It also did not state that Jackie had returned to intensive care or that her current treatment plan had changed.

Those decisions belong to the veterinary team caring for her. The doctors must consider Jackie’s complete condition and the results of the advanced testing before deciding what comes next. For now, the only confirmed development is that her PCV has dropped to 13% and additional testing is underway.

Why Jackie Has Not Returned to Big Bear

Jackie’s worsening anemia has led some concerned followers to wonder whether she should return to Big Bear and reunite with Shadow. Ojai Raptor Center has not announced plans to release her.

Wildlife rehabilitators work toward returning patients to the wild whenever they can safely survive there. Before release, an animal must demonstrate that it can function without medical support and meet the physical demands of life in its natural habitat. Ojai Raptor Center explains that its rehabilitation work includes examinations, diagnostic testing, treatment and a pre-release assessment. The center’s goal is to return patients to the wild when their medical condition allows it.

Jackie is still undergoing treatment and advanced testing. In addition, her veterinary team does not yet know why her anemia has worsened. For now, her care team remains focused on stabilizing her condition and finding the cause of the worsening anemia. The decision must depend on her health, strength and ability to survive safely, rather than the understandable desire to see her back with Shadow.

Ojai Raptor Center Asks the Public for Space

Concern for Jackie reaches far beyond Big Bear Valley. People around the world have followed her life with Shadow, watched her protect their nest and celebrated the eaglets they raised together. As a result, each medical update brings an enormous response.

However, Ojai Raptor Center has asked the public and members of the media to give its veterinary and rehabilitation teams the time and space they need. The center specifically requested that people refrain from calling, texting, emailing or visiting the facility for updates.

Its staff members need to remain focused on patient care. They are caring not only for Jackie, but also for other injured and sick wildlife. Ojai Raptor Center has promised to release another update when meaningful new information becomes available. Until then, supporters can help by relying on official announcements and avoiding unconfirmed medical theories.

Jackie’s Veterinary Team Continues the Search

This Big Bear Eagle Jackie update has delivered a painful turn in a recovery already filled with uncertainty. The falling PCV shows that Jackie still faces a serious medical challenge. Nevertheless, advanced testing is moving forward, and specialists continue searching for the cause.

Executive Director Chris Eksteen, Dr. Kathryn Rasp and the entire Ojai Raptor Center team remain involved in her care. Spirit and the CALM Zoo staff also played an important role by making Jackie’s earlier transfusion possible. In addition, the Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group in Ventura has contributed specialized veterinary support.

Many people want an immediate answer. They want to know what caused the anemia, whether Jackie needs another transfusion and when she might return home. For now, those answers do not exist. What remains certain is that Jackie is receiving specialized care while her veterinary team follows every available lead.

Big Bear Waits for Jackie

Jackie’s absence has left a space in the Big Bear territory that viewers can feel each time the cameras move across the familiar trees. Shadow remains in the territory Jackie has shared with him for years. Meanwhile, the veterinary team continues working miles away to understand why her blood values have fallen.

No one can promise what the next update will bring. Still, Jackie has a team of veterinary professionals working for her, a community waiting for her and a familiar mountain sky that has not forgotten her.

For now, Big Bear waits. So does Shadow. And Jackie’s care team keeps searching for the answer that could show them the way forward.

Support Ojai Raptor Center

Those wishing to support the care and rehabilitation of Jackie and other bald eagle patients can donate through the Ojai Raptor Center Bald Eagle Rehabilitation Campaign.

Video credit: The video was recorded and shared on YouTube by Lady Hawk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Big Bear Eagle Jackie?

Jackie’s latest bloodwork showed that her packed cell volume had fallen to 13%. Ojai Raptor Center said the decline means her anemia has worsened.

What does a PCV of 13% mean?

PCV measures the proportion of blood made up of red blood cells. Jackie’s veterinary team considers the decline to 13% evidence that her anemia has worsened.

Do veterinarians know what caused Jackie’s anemia?

No. Ojai Raptor Center has not announced an underlying cause. Advanced diagnostic and expedited laboratory testing are underway.

Will Jackie receive another blood transfusion?

The center has not announced another transfusion. Jackie previously received blood donated by Spirit, a resident bald eagle at CALM Zoo.

Can Jackie return to Shadow and Big Bear?

No release has been announced. Jackie remains under veterinary care while specialists investigate her worsening anemia.

When will Ojai Raptor Center provide another update?

The center said it will share new information when it has a meaningful update. It has asked the public and media not to contact or visit the facility seeking additional details.

Source: Ojai Raptor Center Patient Update for Bald Eagle 26-519, August 3, 2026.

On Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, motorcycles will begin pouring into Sturgis, South Dakota, as the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally officially opens.

Main Street will trade its usual small-town rhythm for chrome, headlights and an engine rumble rolling through the Black Hills.

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Almost overnight, Sturgis transforms from a quiet Black Hills city into the center of the motorcycle world. But preparations have already started. Temporary traffic signals are operating, speed limits are changing, and early arrivals are beginning to gather before the 10-day rally.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Begins Friday

The 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally runs from Friday, Aug. 7, through Sunday, Aug. 16. During those 10 days, downtown Sturgis becomes the center of a sprawling motorcycle celebration. Concerts, charity rides, stunt performances, burnouts, food vendors and motorcycle displays fill the city and surrounding areas.

However, the rally reaches far beyond Main Street.

Riders also spread across the Black Hills, filling highways that wind past forests, rocky ridges and small South Dakota communities. Motorcycles arrive from across the United States and beyond, turning the entire region into one enormous gathering place.

A Small City Prepares for a Massive Crowd

Sturgis normally has about 7,100 residents. During the rally, the city says its population swells to more than 450,000 people. The 75th anniversary rally in 2015 drew an estimated 739,000 visitors.

As a result, nearly every corner of the city changes. Motorcycles line both sides of downtown streets. Vendors open temporary shops. Music spills from bars and outdoor stages while crowds walk between rows of custom bikes.

Then the traffic keeps coming. Each new wave of headlights adds to a scene that has made Sturgis one of the most recognizable motorcycle destinations in the world.

Main Street Becomes the Heart of Sturgis

Main Street offers one of the clearest views of the transformation. During the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, parked motorcycles can stretch block after block through downtown. Riders gather beside custom machines while visitors move between restaurants, vendors and entertainment areas.

The street becomes part parking lot, part motorcycle show and part rolling parade. Even people who never travel to South Dakota can watch the activity build through the Sturgis live cams. The downtown cameras provide a live look at the motorcycles, crowds and changing conditions around Sturgis.

Watch the Sturgis live cams:
https://sportsmansparadiseonline.com/sturgis-live-cams/

Opening Night Brings a Rally Roar

The official opening day of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will also bring a major celebration at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Friday’s scheduled kickoff includes a motorcycle meetup, a parade into the amphitheater, the traditional Rally Roar and an opening-night performance by David Lee Roth.

Meanwhile, entertainment will continue at venues across Sturgis and the surrounding Black Hills throughout the rally. Some visitors come for the concerts. Others arrive for the scenic rides, custom motorcycles and chance to stand in the middle of Main Street while thousands of engines shake the air around them.

Traffic Changes Begin Before the Rally

South Dakota transportation officials expect a major increase in traffic before and during the event. Temporary traffic signals will operate at several busy intersections around Sturgis and the Black Hills through Monday, Aug. 17. These include locations near Fort Meade, Buffalo Chip, Hill City and Interstate 90.

In addition, temporary speed reductions begin Thursday, Aug. 6. The Interstate 90 speed limit will drop from 75 mph to 65 mph between western Rapid City and Sturgis. Portions of South Dakota highways 34 and 79 will also have lower speed limits near rally venues and campgrounds.

Construction along part of U.S. Highway 385 will pause from Aug. 5 through Aug. 18 to help traffic move through the region. Officials will also use electronic signs to warn drivers about crashes, weather and delays. Therefore, riders should expect slower traffic even before the official opening.

Ten Days of Motorcycles in the Black Hills

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally officially begins Friday, but the transformation will not wait for an opening signal. Motorcycles are already moving toward western South Dakota. Traffic controls are going into place, entertainment stages are preparing, and downtown Sturgis is getting ready for another wave of riders.

Soon, the quiet spaces between buildings will disappear beneath rows of motorcycles.

Then Main Street will roar again.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally begin?

The 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally begins Friday, Aug. 7, and continues through Sunday, Aug. 16.

Where does the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally take place?

The rally centers on Sturgis, South Dakota. However, rides, concerts and other events also take place throughout the surrounding Black Hills.

How many people attend the Sturgis rally?

The City of Sturgis says the rally turns its community of approximately 7,100 residents into a city of more than 450,000 people each year.

Can I watch Sturgis live online?

Yes. Sturgis live cams provide views of downtown streets, motorcycles, crowds and rally activity throughout the event.

On July 27, 2026, two opossums crossed paths during a nighttime meal at a fruit feeder in Panama. As the larger female climbed onto the platform and settled in for dinner, her opossum babies tiny tails became visible sticking out of her pouch at Panama fruit feeder, revealing that she had brought much more than just her appetite.

Watch Live <— feeder cams

Tiny Tails Reveal Hidden Passengers

A smaller opossum already occupies one side of the platform when the larger female arrives. The two lock eyes, and the newcomer takes the long way around before settling on the opposite side. For a brief moment, the pair remains in place. Then the female steps forward, and several slender tails appear beneath her belly.

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Most of the babies remain completely hidden. Only their tails slip into view, revealing the tiny family traveling inside their mother’s pouch. The sight of opossum babies at the Panama Fruit Feeder transforms a simple nighttime meal into an intimate glimpse of a marsupial family’s earliest days. As small bats dart through the darkness, the mother continues moving among the fruit, seemingly untroubled by the young passengers tucked against her body.

A Brief Disagreement Over Dinner

Initially, the two opossums keep to opposite sides of the platform, with a spread of fruit—and a noticeable tension—between them. The uneasy truce finally breaks when a sharp exchange of hisses cuts through the nighttime calm. Soon after, the smaller opossum slips away, leaving the mother to continue her meal alone.

Hissing is one of an opossum’s clearest warnings: a signal that another animal has come too close. It does not necessarily mean a fight is about to begin, and there is no way to know whether these two visitors had encountered each other before. They may simply have arrived hungry at the same place on the same night. Once the smaller opossum disappears, the platform grows quiet again—but the mother is still carrying a secret beneath her.

Those tiny curled tails offer only the smallest glimpse of an extraordinary nursery hidden inside her pouch.

Why Do Opossums Carry Their Babies in a Pouch?

Common opossums are marsupials, and their young enter the world at an extremely early stage of development. The babies complete much of their initial growth inside their mother’s pouch. Soon after birth, the tiny newborns climb through their mother’s fur to reach the pouch. Their bodies still have a great deal of growing to do, but their comparatively strong front limbs and claws help them make this crucial journey.

Once inside, each baby attaches to a teat and continues developing in the warmth and protection of the pouch. The young remain there for roughly two months before they begin taking their first steps toward life outside it. The pouch works as both nursery and transportation. It lets the mother move, climb, and search for food while keeping her vulnerable young close, warm, and nourished. That is what makes the sight of opossum babies at the Panama Fruit Feeder so memorable. Their earliest days usually remain hidden, but those little tails offer a fleeting glimpse of life inside the pouch.

The Pouch Is Only Their First Ride

The babies will not stay tucked inside the pouch forever. As they grow, they begin peeking out more often. Eventually, they become too large to fit comfortably and trade the pouch for a new place to travel: their mother’s back. Clinging to her fur keeps the youngsters close while they grow stronger and begin experiencing the world beyond the pouch. Their mother can continue walking, climbing, and searching for food with her young still safely along for the ride.

Over the following weeks, the babies build the strength and coordination they need to venture out on their own. Common opossums typically become weaned and independent at around 90 to 125 days old, though every litter develops at its own pace. At the fruit feeder, the tails peeking from the pouch show that at least some of the young are still traveling inside. For now, the babies remain largely concealed, though they are growing a little harder to hide with each passing day.

A Midnight Meal Too Good to Miss

The fruit may have been set out for tropical birds, but a hungry opossum is unlikely to ignore an easy meal. Common opossums are flexible foragers that eat whatever the surrounding habitat offers. Ripe fruit may be on the menu, along with insects, carrion, and small animals. That adaptability helps them find food in forests, gardens, and other places shaped by people.

Nightfall gives them the perfect opportunity to investigate. Common opossums do most of their foraging after dark, when the daytime activity has quieted and they can move through the shadows in search of their next meal. Although they spend plenty of time on the ground, they are also capable climbers. Branches and elevated vegetation can become natural pathways to food, making the platform well within reach—even for a mother carrying a growing family. With ripe fruit waiting, darkness providing cover, and branches leading straight to the meal, the visit makes perfect sense.

The appearance of opossum babies at this Panama fruit feeder may feel surprising, but their mother had found exactly what a busy parent needs: an accessible place to refuel along her nighttime route.

The Secret Slips Back Into the Night

After the smaller opossum leaves, the mother stays for several more minutes, moving across the platform as she nibbles and licks at the fruit. Every so often, the curl of a tiny tail appears beneath her, quietly revealing the family tucked inside her pouch.

The sight of opossum babies at a Panama fruit feeder turns an ordinary nighttime meal into something far more intimate: a mother feeding, climbing, and navigating the darkness with an entire family tucked beneath her. When her meal is finished, she turns toward the branches and begins to climb. Then she disappears into the trees, and the little tails vanish with her like a secret folded into the night.

Cornell Lab Bird Cams recorded and shared this video clip on YouTube.

Frequently Asked Questions

Were the baby opossums really inside their mother’s pouch?

Yes. The thin tails visible beneath the female belong to young opossums tucked inside her pouch. Their bodies remain mostly hidden, making the tails the clearest sign that she is carrying babies.

Why were the babies’ tails sticking out?

An occasional tail curls into view as the mother moves around the feeder. The exposed tails do not suggest that the babies are falling out or in danger; they simply provide a brief glimpse of the young concealed inside.

How do newborn opossums reach the pouch?

Opossums enter the world extremely small and underdeveloped. Soon after birth, the newborns use their comparatively strong front limbs and claws to climb through their mother’s fur, enter the pouch, and attach to a teat.

When do baby opossums leave the pouch?

As they grow too large to fit comfortably, the young begin spending more time outside the pouch and may ride on their mother’s back. They remain close while building the strength and coordination needed to become independent.

Why did this mother visit the fruit feeder?

Common opossums are nocturnal, opportunistic omnivores, and ripe fruit can provide an easy meal. The appearance of opossum babies at a Panama fruit feeder may feel surprising, but the mother likely followed the same combination of food, darkness, and accessible branches that attracts other nighttime visitors.