2 Eagle Chicks Hatch Tuesday: Big Bear Bald Eagles Greet Babies

BIG BEAR, CA — Two eagle chicks that began breaking through their shells this week have emerged, according to the Friends of Big Bear Valley live webcam. On Tuesday morning, over 80,000 viewers watched Jackie tend her chicks, maneuvering her body to cover and care for her young.

A naturalist from the FOBBV said over YouTube chat that one hatchling emerged shortly before midnight, and the second hatched at 4:30 a.m. The chicks weigh about 3 ounces each, according to FOBBV. The third egg was laid three days after the second, so no signs of hatching were expected for "a few more days."

Chicks don't need to eat immediately after hatching, says naturalist Maria. Their yolk sack is full of nutrients and will be enough until feedings begin.

"Jackie and Shadow will directly feed their hatchlings raw meat as early as day one after the chicks have rested," Kim wrote.

The first feedings were expected to be a little awkward.

"The chicks are learning to sit and hold their heads up. Their muscles may be weak, and they're often referred to as 'bobbleheads' at this stage."

"They may sit higher than the incubation pose, but will incubate the third egg," she said.
Each chick is born with its light grey natal down, then will develop a darker thermal down and contour feathers after about two weeks."

They will rely on their parents to keep them warm and fed through the winter.

Though Tuesday's weather was slated to be sunny, a mountain storm was expected to arrive Wednesday through Friday, and the San Bernardino Mountains were under a winter storm watch. Strong winds were expected, and snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches above 5000 ft and 18 to 24 inches above 7000 ft were possible. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, in 2019, the bonded pair lost one of two babies to hypothermia during late-season snow and rain, with temperatures below 26 degrees. The Forest Service says bald eagles have a 50% mortality rate in their first year of life.

Meanwhile, Southern California and interested eaglet watchers worldwide are keeping an eye on this nest and hoping for the best.

Friends of Big Bear Valley is a non-profit organization. Click here to learn more about the group, share or donate to support them online.

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