The recovery of beloved bald eagle Jackie has taken a troubling turn after veterinarians reported that her severe anemia has worsened, despite earlier signs that had offered hope for improvement.In an Aug. 3 social media update, the Ojai Raptor Center said Jackie's latest medical tests revealed a decline in her condition. According to the wildlife rehabilitation facility, recent bloodwork showed that her packed cell volume (PCV) had fallen to 13%, indicating that her anemia has become more severe.The center said Jackie's latest "bloodwork brought some difficult news" with her packed cell volume (PCV) dropping to 13%, "which means her anemia has worsened" since the previous update.Veterinarians have already begun responding to the setback. The facility said its "veterinary team is responding quickly," and "additional advanced diagnostic testing" is underway as specialists continue "working to better understand her condition and guide the next steps in her treatment.""At this stage, we do not have further answers to share, but we promise to keep you informed as soon as we have meaningful new information," Ojai Raptor Center said, adding it was grateful to the public for its "continued encouragement and support."Jackie, who is estimated to be 14 years old, was attacked in mid-July by two subadult bald eagles near Dana Point Park. The eagle, famously known from the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam in Big Bear Valley, was subsequently discovered on the ground near Dana Point Park and was unable to take flight.Then it was transported her to the Ojai Raptor Center; since then, Jackie's health battle has captured the attention of millions.What happened to Jackie?According to the Ojai Raptor Center's July 21 update, "Initial bloodwork" showed the eagle "is experiencing severe anemia and inflammation affecting the kidneys." Veterinarians immediately began "supportive treatment based on the information available," while consulting wildlife experts from around the world.On July 20, Jackie underwent a "life-saving" blood transfusion from another eagle and received oxygen therapy as part of her treatment. Since then, she has remained under intensive veterinary care, receiving daily blood tests and supportive treatments while specialists work to determine the underlying cause of her illness.As a precaution, Jackie has also been treated for suspected rodenticide toxicity, which can occur when birds ingest rats or mice that have consumed poison. However, caregivers have said they do not believe rodenticide poisoning is the primary cause of her condition.Extensive diagnostic testing has already ruled out several major causes, including lead poisoning, cancer, and metal foreign objects such as fishing hooks. Wildlife officials also confirmed on July 23 that Jackie tested negative for lead poisoning, one of the most common causes of death among bald eagles and other birds.
Big Bear bald eagle Jackie faces new health crisis as bloodwork shows worsening anemia
Beloved bald eagle Jackie's anemia has worsened, veterinarians reported. Her packed cell volume fell to thirteen percent, indicating a decline. Veterinarians are performing advanced diagnostic tests to understand her condition. Jackie was attacked in mid-July and has been receiving intensive veterinary care. The Ojai Raptor Center expressed gratitude for public support during this difficult time.








