1 Of 3 Big Bear Eaglets Seems To Be Missing From Nest Amid Snow Storm

BIG BEAR, CA — Over 70,000 viewers turned to Friends of Big Bear Valley eagle's nest YouTube video Friday morning to spy only two eaglets being fed by their mother.

Concerned comments flooded the chat as naturalists attempted to keep up.

All three eggs hatched ahead of last week's storm and were spied, being fed and cared for by mother, Jackie, and father, Shadow. Still, at the end of the week, only two eaglets were seen eating bits of fish Friday morning. Snow flurries returned as she settled back over her hatchlings.

FOBBV, the non-profit educational environmental group dedicated to protecting and preserving Big Bear Valley, is monitoring the hatchlings' progress, and naturalists are answering questions from curious fans worldwide.

While nothing concrete has been stated about the third, smallest eaglet, naturalists suggest we wait and send good thoughts.

Spokesperson "Cali Condor" attempted to answer commenters on Friday, a calming voice of reason as concerned eaglet watchers sent worried questions.

"During the first feeding session today only two chicks were visible. We cannot see the entire nest bowl because the view remains partially obstructed by snow.

"We are observers of nature and do not know the entirety of the current situation. We are holding our eagle family in our hearts and sending love to our FOBBV community world-wide. We are viewing the everyday life of Bald Eagles.

"Sometimes our emotions override our curiosity. It’s OK to trust them when you need to and to make healthy decisions for yourself."

Naturalists have commented that eagles don't have any problems incubating in the snow and are quite good at keeping their babies warm and dry. Jackie's featherless spot on her underbelly that warms her babies is evident as she moves around the nest, as seen in the video.

Donate to the cause of keeping the FOBBV webcams and conversation going at friendsofbigbearvalley.org