2 bald eagles building their nest near Big Bear Lake

BIG BEAR, California (KABC) – There’s some excitement coming to Big Bear! This is because two adult bald eagles, known as Jackie and Shadow, are building their nest in the area.

The San Bernardino National Forest has closed a hiking trail and other areas around their nest to protect them. The closure includes part of the Grays Peak Trail and the Grout Bay Picnic Area.

Officials say the closure helps protect the nesting site and maintain the bald eagle’s natural behavior. The species is sensitive to human interference and can abandon nesting activities, including eggs and offspring, if it feels threatened.

Jackie and Shadow have been working on the nest for the past few weeks, bringing sticks and other building materials. Such behavior indicates an intention to mate and raise a brood, forest officials said.

The pair may soon nest on eggs, which would take around 35 days to hatch once laid.

“Friends of Big Bear Valley” hosts a live camera on their website for those wishing to watch nesting activities.

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