Big Bear Valley’s beloved eagle pair Jackie and Shadow could be welcoming another chick into their family soon.
Friends of Big Bear Valley announced on social media that one of the eagle pair’s eggs had pipped, or cracked in the hatching process, at 3:09 p.m. on Sunday, March 2. Jackie and Shadow’s last chick, Spirit, pipped exactly three years ago Sunday.
If the hatching process is successful, it may take a day or more for the new chick to fully emerge from its shell.
“Meanwhile, we will remain patient and hold the most positive thoughts,” Friends of Big Bear Valley wrote on Facebook.
For fans of Jackie and Shadow who are waiting with anticipation, the organization has two web cams that broadcast a 24-hour livestream of the eagles’ nest.
In January, Jackie, the female of the pair, delivered three eggs. It was the second consecutive year that Jackie and Shadow had welcomed a three-egg clutch.
Jackie’s eggs have historically hatched 38 to 39 days after they were delivered, according to the Friends of Big Bear Valley.
Followers of the eagle pair and their eggs cheered the news on Sunday.
“Congratulations!” one Facebook user said. “Sending speedy pipping and energy for these three sweet babies to emerge healthy and ready to thrive!”