Big Bear eaglet ‘Sandy’ has fallen from its nest in the San Bernardino Mountains, triggering an urgent search by wildlife officials and the public via a live webcam feed that has captured the incident in real time. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) confirmed the fall occurred on May 12, 2024, near the Big Bear Lake area, where the nest is monitored by a high-definition camera system operated by the Big Bear Valley Discovery Center. Officials described the bird’s condition as “unclear” but stated it was not observed flying away, raising concerns about potential injury.
The live stream, which has drawn thousands of viewers, shows the eaglet—named “Sandy” by the discovery center—struggling on the ground beneath the nest. Wildlife experts say juvenile bald eagles often fall from nests during their fledging process, but the height of this particular nest (approximately 100 feet) increases the risk of serious injury. CDFW officials have urged the public to avoid approaching the area to prevent disturbing the bird or its parents, both of which remain nearby.
Responding to the incident, the discovery center posted an update on its Instagram page, stating: “Our team is monitoring the situation closely. If you see the eaglet, do not touch it—call CDFW at (916) 358-2900 for assistance.” The center also noted that the eaglet’s parents have been observed returning to the nest area, suggesting they may attempt to assist their offspring.
What Happened During the Fall?
The incident occurred during daylight hours, with the webcam capturing the moment Sandy lost its grip and fell. According to CDFW spokesperson Jessica Green, “Fledging is a natural part of an eagle’s life cycle, but the height of this nest means any fall carries risks. We’re working with local law enforcement to ensure the area remains secure while we assess the bird’s condition.”
Wildlife biologists explain that juvenile eagles often practice flapping and jumping from nests before fully fledging, a process that can take several weeks. The discovery center’s nest cam, which has been streaming since 2021, has documented the growth of multiple eaglets, including Sandy, whose parents—nicknamed “Mom” and “Dad”—have been nesting in the area for years. This year’s nest was particularly high, likely to deter predators.
Viewers of the live feed reported seeing the eaglet move its wings shortly after the fall, though its ability to fly remains unknown. “It’s a critical window,” said Dr. Rachel Carter, a raptor specialist with the National Eagle Center. “Eaglets this age rely on their parents for food and protection. If Sandy is injured, the parents may not be able to care for it long-term.”
How Is the Search Proceeding?
CDFW and the discovery center are coordinating a search effort focused on the immediate vicinity of the nest. Officials have requested that the public refrain from sharing the eaglet’s exact location to avoid attracting unauthorized visitors. “We’re treating this as a wildlife rescue operation,” Green said. “Our top priority is ensuring Sandy’s safety while minimizing human interference.”
The live webcam feed remains active, with updates expected as more information becomes available. The discovery center has also encouraged viewers to report any sightings of the eaglet to local authorities. Meanwhile, the nest’s parents continue to circle the area, a behavior experts say is typical when offspring are in distress.
Live Webcam Feed:
Why Does This Incident Matter?
This event highlights the challenges of fledging for young raptors, particularly in high-altitude nests. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, bald eagle populations have rebounded significantly since the 1970s due to conservation efforts, but nest failures—including falls—remain a leading cause of mortality for juvenile birds. The discovery center’s nest cam has become a valuable tool for researchers studying eagle behavior and fledging success rates.
Locally, the incident has also sparked community engagement. The Big Bear Valley area, known for its wildlife tourism, has seen an influx of visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the eaglet. However, officials warn that well-meaning observers could inadvertently harm the bird by disturbing its habitat. “Eagles are highly sensitive to human presence,” Carter noted. “Even if someone means well, their actions could delay our ability to assess Sandy’s condition.”
What Are the Next Steps?
CDFW officials expect to provide an update within the next 24–48 hours, pending the eaglet’s condition and the parents’ ability to care for it. If Sandy is found to be injured, wildlife rehabilitators may intervene, though such cases often have low survival rates. The discovery center has also assured the public that the nest cam will continue broadcasting until the situation is resolved.
In the meantime, the center is advising viewers to:
- Do not approach the nest area.
- Report any sightings of the eaglet to CDFW at (916) 358-2900.
- Share the live feed responsibly to avoid spreading misinformation.
For those interested in eagle conservation, the National Eagle Center offers resources on how to support raptor habitats. The center also encourages donations to fund wildlife rescue operations.
Reader Questions:
- Could Sandy survive if it’s not injured? Wildlife experts say many eaglets recover from falls, but survival depends on the height and the bird’s ability to fly.
- What should I do if I see the eaglet? Do not touch it—call CDFW immediately.
This story will be updated as new information becomes available. For real-time developments, follow the live webcam feed and official updates from CDFW.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only. For professional wildlife assistance, contact CDFW or a licensed rehabilitator.
Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag @BigBearValley with updates.
