#United States #Wildlife Education #Jackie Eagle #Big Bear Valley #Big Bear Lake, California

Community Comes Together for Wings Over Big Bear

Big Bear Valley is set to unite in celebration of Jackie the Bald Eagle during the event known as Wings Over Big Bear, taking place on October 3rd and 4th. This memorable weekend will not only pay tribute to the iconic eagle but also focus on wildlife education and conservation efforts in the area that she called home.

Jackie was a beloved resident of Big Bear Valley, renowned the world over through the Friends of Big Bear Valley nest camera. Millions tuned in to witness Jackie and her mate, Shadow, nurturing their eggs and confronting the challenges of nature from the safety of their nest high above Big Bear Lake.

Sadly, Jackie’s life came to an untimely end when she was rescued in July after being found weak and unable to fly. Despite extensive care efforts, she passed away on August 10 at the age of 14. Her unique presence contributed to a greater appreciation for wildlife among her followers, cementing her legacy as both a local icon and a voice for wildlife conservation.

The two-day event kicks off on Saturday, October 3rd at Bear Mountain Resort with a community commemoration. Attendees are invited to gather for a celebration of Jackie’s contributions, reflecting on how she inspired millions to engage more deeply with wildlife. The ceremony will begin with cultural insights provided by the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, paying homage to their historic ties to Big Bear Valley as well as the wildlife within.

Event Schedule for Saturday, October 3rd

• - 10:00 AM - Venue Opens: Guests can arrive to enjoy music performed by the local Mountaintop Strings while food and beverages are served.
• - 10:30 AM - Commemoration Ceremony: The official program features speeches and musical performances by various representatives from the community, wildlife, conservation, and government sectors.
• - 12:10 PM - Closing of the Formal Ceremony: Following the tributes, guests are encouraged to explore booths hosted by organizations dedicated to wildlife education and conservation.

Sunday, October 4th, will mark Wildlife Education Day, expanding on the theme of remembrance with hands-on activities throughout Big Bear Valley. Unlike the previous day, Sunday will offer a variety of interactive opportunities across multiple locations. Visitors will be able to partake in guided birdwatching, hikes focusing on enjoying local wildlife, and educational programming aimed at the younger crowd.

Highlights for Sunday, October 4th

• - Guided Birdwatching: An invitation to observe local avian life in their natural habitats.
• - Restoration Activities: Participants can assist in native seed collection to support regional conservation efforts.
• - Educational Booths: Opportunities to learn about the history of bald eagles in the Valley and meet representatives from community organizations.
• - Creative Activities for Kids: Special programs designed to engage children, including art inspired by Jackie.

Some activities may require advance registration due to capacity limits, while others will be available on a drop-in basis throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to stay updated by visiting the official Wings Over Big Bear website for the latest schedules and registration details.

Wings Over Big Bear is a heartfelt initiative developed swiftly following the passing of Jackie, allowing community partners to come together to promote a mutual love for wildlife education, conservation, and stewardship. Let’s honor Jackie's memory by participating in this vital gathering to recognize the beauty of our natural world and work collectively toward preserving it for future generations.

About Big Bear

Big Bear is a cherished tourist destination drawing nearly 7.5 million visitors each year. Located amidst scenic national forests and a beautiful freshwater lake, it showcases an alpine setting ideal for outdoor adventures year-round. Approximately two hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear provides a perfect escape into nature, complete with vibrant community events focused on conservation and wildlife.

For more information on Wings Over Big Bear or any activities planned for the weekend, please visit BigBear.com.