Avian Influenza Confirmed in Death of Bald Eagle Jackie
The 14-year-old eagle from Big Bear Valley died in August after receiving medical care from state experts.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Birds
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the primary cause of death for the bald eagle Jackie in August 2026. The 14-year-old raptor had received medical treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center before passing away.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of avian influenza in wildlife mortality helps researchers track the spread of the virus across California. This diagnostic result provides clarity on the health risks facing local bird populations in the wake of recent outbreaks.
Official necropsy findings confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza as the primary cause of death for the 14-year-old eagle. Testing also identified traces of brodifacoum in the bird's liver, though West Nile virus was definitively ruled out.
The players
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The state agency responsible for managing wildlife populations and investigating environmental health threats to native species.
Ojai Raptor Center
A California-based rehabilitation facility specializing in the rescue and medical treatment of injured or ill birds of prey.
US Fish and Wildlife Service
The federal entity that oversees the conservation of migratory birds and manages the National Eagle Repository.
The details
The avian influenza infection induced an atypical stomach ulcer, leading to severe internal bleeding, anemia, and subsequent bacterial sepsis. Pathologists also observed severe inflammation and blood clots within the bird's heart and major blood vessels. While traces of the rodenticide brodifacoum were detected, lead levels remained within acceptable limits throughout the medical evaluation.
Timeline
August 2026: The bald eagle Jackie died after receiving medical care.
October 14, 2026: California Department of Fish and Wildlife released necropsy findings.
The Home Front
This case highlights the persistent environmental risks posed by the ongoing circulation of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the United States. It marks a significant data point in the broader effort to monitor how this virus affects regional bird health and ecosystem stability.
If you encounter sick or deceased wildlife in your yard or neighborhood, keep pets and children away to prevent potential contact. Report these sightings to local wildlife authorities rather than attempting to handle or relocate the animals yourself.
The takeaway
The diagnostic findings provide closure regarding the cause of death for the Big Bear Valley eagle after her medical treatment. Residents can support local conservation by keeping pet food and trash secure to minimize secondary exposures to common rodenticides.
Further reading
Learn more about local raptor health and conservation efforts in the Birds section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Dvm360.
