Eagle Update: Shadow's New Mate
Fans loyal to Jackie, Big Bear’s late, famous bald eagle mom, may not like this news, but it appears her former mate is growing closer to his new female friend.
Friends of Big Bear Valley shared an update on Shadow’s developing relationship with Kaydee in a social media post Wednesday after the pair was seen sprucing up their nest.
“The pair stood close together for several moments, gently brushing against one another before getting down to business,” Friends of Big Bear Valley wrote. “Kaydee immediately focused on rearranging a few stubborn sticks, while Shadow conducted several careful inspections around the nest.”
Shadow moves on
Shadow and Jackie had nine chicks over the course of their seven-year relationship, which played out on FOBBV’s live webcam. Sadly, their journey together came to an end in mid-July when Jackie was found unable to fly along the shore of Big Bear Lake after an altercation with two other bald eagles. She had no physical injuries, but rescuers took her to the Ojai Raptor Center and attempted to nurse her back to health. Her condition deteriorated, and she died on Aug. 10. A necropsy later found she was suffering from highly contagious avian flu, which caused a host of other ailments, including a stomach ulcer, internal bleeding, and bacterial sepsis.
As veterinarians fought to save Jackie, another female bald eagle, later identified as KD1 (simply known as Kaydee), swooped in and began cozying up to Shadow, angering some fans who nicknamed her “Jolene” after the Dolly Parton song.
The developing relationship
Now, months later, it seems Shadow and Kaydee are a legitimate item. In their social media post, FOBBV noted signs of affection as the two eagles stood together in the nest, watching for any potential intruders.
“When Kaydee turned around, Shadow showered her with affectionate little nibbles before she headed out to the front porch of the nest,” they wrote. “Shadow took up a position on the back porch, keeping watch over their territory. Together, they enjoyed the morning sunshine for more than an hour while standing guard over their home.”
“It is encouraging to see Shadow and Kaydee working together to defend their territory while continuing to strengthen their bond. Watching this devoted pair grow closer with each passing day is truly a joy!”
Bald eagle mating season typically runs from fall through the summer. And even if there are some who still harbor hard feelings, Kaydee has many supporters and fans rooting for the relationship – as evidenced by the comments on FOBBV’s post.
“Kaydee’s persistence these past months will make her a focused partner and mother. Jackie would want Shadow to continue the Big Bear Legacy they together created,” one commenter wrote.
“Kaydee has truly been a blessing,” another agreed. “I was devastated, like many, with Jackie’s passing. But having her show up when she did and find Shadow is a miracle.”