New Eagle Companion Joins Shadow in Big Bear Skies

A new eagle companion, identified as Kaydee, has begun frequenting the skies and treetops of Big Bear, often seen alongside Shadow. Wildlife activists with Friends of Big Bear Valley have officially named this new visitor, a departure from their usual practice. The naming occurred after Kaydee was observed for about a week. This new companionship follows the recent death of Shadow's longtime mate, Jackie, who succumbed to health issues after nearly a month of setbacks.

Kaydee is a young adult eagle, banded and hatched in the Prado Basin of Riverside County in 2021. Biologists note that it is common for eagles like Kaydee to explore areas like Big Bear during non-breeding seasons, seeking favorable environments with ample food. While the sex of Kaydee is not definitively known, observers are leaning towards the eagle being female. Birdwatchers have noted Kaydee and Shadow flying together and perching for extended periods.