The peaceful nesting site of internet-famous bald eagles, Jackie and Shadow, at Big Bear Lake recently experienced a moment of drama. Fiona, a persistent flying squirrel, made several attempts to approach the eagles' nest overnight. This intrusion did not go unnoticed by Jackie, who promptly responded with a decisive "slap" and vocalizations, clearly signaling her intolerance for the squirrel's presence.
This event, observed and shared by Friends of Big Bear Valley, highlights the protective nature of the parent eagles towards their eaglets, Sandy and Luna. It also sheds light on the diverse wildlife coexisting in the area, including the San Bernardino flying squirrels, who are known to scavenge for food scraps near the nest. The interaction underscores the ongoing balance of nature and the vigilance required to protect young offspring.
The incident serves as a reminder of the daily challenges faced by wildlife in their natural habitats. While the eagles are well-known, the story also indirectly highlights the importance of conserving the environment for all species, including the flying squirrels whose presence is an integral part of the ecosystem.
