Quick Take
- Jackie and Shadow's newest eaglets almost never made it, and the reason why makes their survival even more remarkable. About the eaglets' survival →
- A beloved figure behind these eagles' famous nest cam won't get to meet these eaglets, and that fact is reshaping how fans are approaching the naming contest. The bittersweet milestone →
- You can actually help name these eaglets, though there is one rule most people probably won't anticipate. Enter the naming contest →
- Last year's eaglet names were genuinely memorable, and this year the bar might be even higher. See this year's contest →
Over Easter weekend, Friends of Big Bear’s Valley’s beloved eagle couple had a surprise to share with their fans. Jackie and Shadow welcomed two baby eaglets into the world, and they’re currently healthy and happy in their big nest. Fans at home watched the new hatchlings on a video shared by Friends of Big Bear Valley. And now, the nonprofit that operates the camera and cares for the eagles is inviting you to help name their newest family members.
The Big Eaglet Naming Contest
Now through April 26th, eagle lovers have the chance to enter their own creative names to be used for the new eaglets. A donation of $5 grants one name suggestion, $10 grants three, and $25 grants ten. Participants are encouraged to be as creative, sentimental, or whimsical as they want. The winner will be chosen at random after 11:59 PST on the 26th. The selected name will then be shared via the Friends of Big Bear Valley Facebook page, YouTube channel, and Instagram.
One healthy eaglet is a success, but Shadow and Jackie have had two this year.
©Jon C. Beverly/Shutterstock.com
To commemorate the winning name, the winning participant will receive a special certificate of recognition. Runners-up will also be chosen at random and will receive their own certificates. The only rules for the contest are as follows:
- Gender-neutral names only. The staff does not yet know the eaglets’ gender!
- Nothing inappropriate. Anything containing explicit words, derogatory language, or discriminatory content will be automatically filtered out.
About Jackie and Shadow’s Eaglets
The birth of these two eaglets is a significant and sentimental moment for Friends of Big Bear Valley. Sandy Steers, the woman credited with the installation of the nest cam, sadly passed away two months before their birth. That makes this moment bittersweet for the nonprofit, but also one they celebrate in her honor. Because of Steers, the team and everyone following at home have the chance to observe these majestic birds, no matter where they are.
Jackie and Shadow have also faced their challenges. While these two hatchlings survived, their first eggs this past winter were destroyed by ravens. The newest additions to their family are incredibly special, and Friends of Big Bear Valley are hoping their names will be, too. Last year’s eaglet names were memorable–Sunny and Gizmo–and we can’t wait to see which names win this year.
