OJAI, Calif., Aug. 7 (Nationwide Times) — Jackie, the bald eagle known from the Big Bear Valley nest camera, remains in critical condition at the Ojai Raptor Center, where veterinarians are providing intensive treatment and monitoring.
The center’s latest reported update said Jackie’s packed cell volume, or PCV, had fallen to 13% from 16%. PCV measures the portion of blood made up of red blood cells. A lower result indicates worsening anemia, a condition in which the blood does not carry enough oxygen.
Ojai Raptor Center said advanced diagnostic testing and expedited laboratory work were underway. The center has not identified the underlying cause of Jackie’s anemia and kidney inflammation.
What is known about her condition?
Jackie previously received a blood transfusion in an effort to address the severe anemia. The donated blood came from Spirit, a resident bald eagle at the California Living Museum in Bakersfield. Ojai Raptor Center described the transfusion as an important treatment milestone.
After a setback, Jackie’s PCV rose from 8% to 16%. The center also reported that she was eating independently and showing more energy and alertness. Earlier updates said she was eating and perching.
Testing ruled out lead toxicosis and foreign objects, including fishing hooks, fishing line and weights, according to Ojai Raptor Center. The center has not reported a confirmed diagnosis. Earlier testing for other possible exposures, including zinc or rodenticide, was described as pending in reports based on the center’s updates; the available information does not show the results.
Did she leave intensive care?
Ojai Raptor Center previously reported that Jackie had moved from its intensive-care unit to a regular hospital care unit because she no longer needed oxygen therapy. The center called that move an encouraging step but stressed that she remained very sick and was not out of danger.
The later decline in her PCV raises new concern about her anemia. The available updates do not establish whether she remains in the regular hospital unit or has returned to intensive care.
How did Jackie arrive at the center?
The San Dimas Raptor Rescue team, part of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, rescued an injured bald eagle after a reported fight with two other eagles and took the bird to Ojai Raptor Center. ABC News described the rescued bird as presumed to be Jackie. The available reports do not provide definitive identification details.
Jackie was associated with the Big Bear Valley nest-cam and became widely followed by viewers. Her treatment has involved wildlife-rehabilitation groups across Southern California, including the rescue team in Los Angeles County and the California Living Museum in Bakersfield.
What happens next?
Veterinarians are continuing to monitor Jackie’s blood values and overall condition while seeking an explanation for the anemia and kidney inflammation. Ojai Raptor Center has not provided a complete prognosis or a release date in the updates described here.
For now, the most recent information shows a bird that has had some signs of improvement, including eating and increased alertness, but whose bloodwork later worsened. The center continues to describe Jackie’s condition as critical.
