🪶 The Sky’s the Limit for Big Bear’s Young Eagles: Sunny & Gizmo
Witness the inspiring story of Sunny and Gizmo, two bald eagle siblings nesting above Big Bear Lake, CA. Learn about their first flights, family dynamics, and the proud legacy of eagles in Big Bear Valley.
High above the lake in the treetops of Big Bear Valley, two young bald eagles—Sunny and Gizmo—have taken their first bold steps toward independence. These sisters, nurtured by Big Bear’s favorite eagle parents Jackie and Shadow, are the stars of this year’s nesting season.
Sunny Spreads Her Wings!
On the morning of June 2nd, at exactly 10:46 a.m., Sunny made her historic leap from the “Y-branch” and soared gracefully toward Jackie and Shadow’s favorite roost tree. She became the first of this year’s eaglets to fledge (take her first flight), delighting both her human observers and her curious younger sister Gizmo, who watched the flight wide-eyed from the nest.
Since then, Sunny has been testing her wings, exploring nearby perches like the aptly named “Simba Tree,” and proving she’s not just strong—but fiercely independent. Her triumphant return to the nest tree was met with enthusiastic feather-tussling, fish squabbles, and heartwarming family bonding.
Gizmo’s Growth and Grit
While Sunny soared, Gizmo was soaking it all in. By June 4th, Gizmo had not only built up her wing strength (a process adorably dubbed “wingersizing”) but was also engaging in intense survival training courtesy of her parents. Jackie and Shadow orchestrated a food tug-of-war that challenged Gizmo’s persistence, grit, and hunger—literally.
Whether dancing on fish, leaping across branches, or trying to outsmart her older sister, Gizmo’s personality has become as big as her wingspan. It’s only a matter of time before she takes to the skies herself.
A Feathered Legacy in Big Bear Lake
Bald eagles have been nesting in the Big Bear Valley for decades, but it wasn’t until recent years that the local eagle population found celebrity status. Thanks to the Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) and their 24/7 live eagle cam, viewers around the world have witnessed the entire life cycle of these raptors—eggs hatching, eaglets growing, and now… their first flights.
Jackie and Shadow, the valley’s now-iconic eagle couple, have raised several successful broods over the years. Previous offspring, like Simba and Spirit, also launched their first flights from the very same High Perch. Each year, they remind us of the importance of preserving the natural beauty and habitat of our local wildlife.
Why Eagles Matter in Big Bear
Bald eagles were once on the brink of extinction. Their resurgence is not just a conservation success story—it’s a testament to what happens when communities come together to protect nature. Big Bear Lake provides a pristine environment with clean water, ample fish, and towering pines—ideal for nesting eagles.
Sunny and Gizmo are more than just birds. They represent the resilience of nature, the bond of family, and the soaring spirit of Big Bear itself.
Follow Their Journey
If you haven’t yet, tune in to the Big Bear Eagle Cam to watch these magnificent eagles in real-time. You’ll be amazed by the moments of tenderness, bravery, and the occasional fish-flinging fiasco that unfold daily in the treetops.
Stay tuned—we’ll be watching closely as Gizmo prepares for her first flight and both sisters take their place in the skies over Big Bear.
Live Where Eagles Soar!
Imagine waking up to the sound of rustling pines, catching glimpses of eagles soaring above, and enjoying the serenity of lake and forest life. Whether you’re looking for a vacation retreat, a forever home, or simply a deeper connection to nature—Big Bear is calling.
đź“ž Contact Easterby & Associates at 909-375-0081 or visit our website to learn more about real estate opportunities in Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City, and surrounding mountain communities.
👉 Want to watch the eagles live?
Check out the Big Bear Eagle Cam and follow Sunny and Gizmo’s story as it unfolds!
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