As Jackie and Shadow’s chicks prepare to fledge from their Big Bear Lake nest in San Bernardino County, a new nesting pair of bald eagles has been spotted taking up residence in Southern California.
The apex predator couple has recently been seen getting comfortable in tree branches in Los Angeles County, the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation announced Friday, May 29.
“We are proud to report that we have a nesting pair of bald eagles in LA County,” the agency said via social media.
The specific location of the birds was not disclosed.
“Bald eagles, along with all native nesting birds, are protected under federal law,” the statement said. “Disturbing active nests can disrupt breeding and impact their success.”
Officials offered several suggestions for the public to avoid distressing the eagles or any other nesting birds. They included observing only from a distance and not lingering near nests; keeping dogs leashed and under control, particularly when near trees or shrubs birds may call home; avoiding flying drones near wildlife, delaying tree trimming or vegetation clearance during nesting season, if possible.
Anyone who spots a nest or a nestling in distress can reach out to their local wildlife agency.
“Protecting wildlife is a shared responsibility. Together, we can help ensure these remarkable birds have the space and support they need to raise the next generation,” according to the county statement.
Sandy and Luna eager to take flight at Big Bear Lake
Meanwhile, at San Bernardino County’s Big Bear Lake, a nest belonging to famed bald eagles Jackie and Shadow continues to grow more crowded each day, as chicks Sandy and Luna continue their rapid growth as they approach two months old.
The chicks, which hatched on April 4 and 5, have been busily exercising their wings and hopping around the nest as they prepare to take their first flights, which can occur at around 10 weeks of age, according to experts.
“Sandy and Luna not only have grown in size, but also in learned skills,” according to a statement from Friends of Big Bear Valley, which operates the world-famous 24-hour live camera view of the nest. “Jackie and Shadow’s parenting skills, coupled with Sandy and Luna’s innate abilities, provide them with what they need to soar to new heights.”
While still constant, feeding by the parents has grown less frequent as the young eagles have developed large enough “crops,” or expandable pouch-like features in their throats, to store several days’ worth of food at a time, the group explained.
“Sandy and Luna are getting so strong and adept at hopping a little higher with each passing moment,” according to the statement. “Sandy and Luna’s journey continues to bring us so much joy. We are fascinated with their continued transformation and watching them grow day by day.”
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: LA County bald eagle pair confirmed as Big Bear chicks grow
Reporting by Brian Day, USA TODAY NETWORK / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
