Big Bear Eaglets Sandy & Luna: Development, Milestones & Legacy

Big Bear Valley’s beloved bald eagle nest, home to parents Jackie and Shadow, welcomed two new eaglets in early April 2026. Named Sandy and Luna, the siblings quickly became stars of the live-streaming nest cam operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley.

Hatching and Naming

Sandy and Luna hatched on April 4 and 5, 2026, in the Jackie and Shadow nest at Big Bear Lake, California. Source 10 The nonprofit Friends of Big Bear Valley officially announced their names on May 1, 2026.

Rapid Growth and Feather Development

In the weeks following hatching, the eaglets grew rapidly and were soon nearly covered in feathers. Source 8 By roughly nine weeks of age, they began strengthening their wings in preparation for first flights. Source 6

Gender Confirmation

Friends of Big Bear Valley combined DNA testing with long-term observation to confirm Sandy as female and Luna as male. Source 9

Fledging Countdown and First Flights

On May 31, 2026, heavy nest activity and vigorous wing-slapping signaled the start of the fledging countdown. Source 4 Typical fledging occurs around this period, after which the young eagles remain nearby while refining their skills.

Post-Fledging Independence

After fledging, Sandy and Luna spend approximately 75 days strengthening flight and foraging abilities before achieving full independence. Source 1 They continue learning within the Big Bear Valley area. Source 3

Tribute to Sandy Steers

The eaglets’ names honor the late conservation advocate Sandy Steers, a champion of the Jackie and Shadow nest cam. Memorial events celebrated her $10-million fundraising mission for eagle protection. Source 5

FAQ

When did Sandy and Luna hatch? Sandy and Luna hatched on April 4 and 5, 2026, in the Jackie and Shadow nest at Big Bear Lake, California.

How are the eaglets’ genders determined? Friends of Big Bear Valley used a combination of DNA testing and long-term observation to confirm Sandy as female and Luna as male.

What happens after the eaglets fledge? After fledging, the young eagles spend about 75 days strengthening flight skills and foraging before achieving full independence.

Who was Sandy Steers? Sandy Steers was a noted Big Bear eagle expert and conservationist whose advocacy led to the popular Jackie and Shadow nest cam and raised millions for eagle protection.

Where can viewers watch the eaglets? Live-streaming cameras operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley provide continuous footage of the nest and surrounding area.