BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Jackie, the beloved Big Bear bald eagle recovering at the Ojai Raptor Center, has suffered a setback in her recovery after new bloodwork showed her anemia has worsened.
According to an update released Monday, Aug. 3rd, the Ojai Raptor Center said Jackie’s latest packed cell volume (PCV), which measures the percentage of red blood cells in her bloodstream, has fallen to 13%, down from 17% reported in the center’s previous update.
“Today’s bloodwork brought some difficult news,” the rehabilitation center said in a written statement. “Her packed cell volume (PCV) has dropped to 13%, which means her anemia has worsened since our last update.”
The latest development comes just days after veterinarians reported encouraging progress in Jackie’s condition, including improved blood values and increased energy. Although she remains under constant veterinary care, the decline in her PCV marks another challenge in what the Ojai Raptor Center has repeatedly described as a complex medical case.
According to the rehabilitation center, its veterinary team is responding immediately by expanding diagnostic efforts in hopes of determining the underlying cause of Jackie’s illness.
“Our veterinary team is responding quickly,” the organization said. “Additional advanced diagnostic testing is now underway, and expedited laboratory testing has been requested as we continue working to better understand her condition and guide the next steps in her treatment.”
Jackie has been receiving specialized care at the Ojai Raptor Center since being rescued near Big Bear Lake after she was found grounded and unable to fly. Since her arrival, veterinarians have conducted repeated physical examinations, comprehensive bloodwork, advanced imaging, toxicology screening and a life-saving blood transfusion while consulting with wildlife specialists from across the country.
The rehabilitation center has previously ruled out several possible causes of Jackie’s illness, including lead toxicosis, zinc toxicosis, aspergillosis, rodenticide toxicosis and renal disease. Despite those findings, veterinarians have not yet identified the cause of the severe anemia that continues to affect her.
At this time, the Ojai Raptor Center said it does not have additional answers to share but pledged to continue providing updates as meaningful new information becomes available.
“At this stage, we do not have further answers to share, but we promise to keep you informed as soon as we have meaningful new information,” the organization said.
The Ojai Raptor Center also thanked supporters for their continued encouragement while asking the public and members of the media to allow its veterinary and rehabilitation teams to remain focused on Jackie’s care.
“We know how deeply so many of you care about this eagle, and we are grateful for your continued encouragement and support,” the organization said. “At this time, we kindly ask the public and members of the media to continue respecting the veterinary and rehabilitation teams involved in her care by allowing them the time and space they need to remain focused on patient care. Please refrain from calling, texting, emailing, or visiting our facility for updates.”
Supporters wishing to help Jackie and other injured birds of prey can contribute to the Ojai Raptor Center’s Bald Eagle Rehabilitation Campaign.
Ojai Raptor Center – Bald Eagle Rehabilitation Campaign:
https://ojairaptorcenter.networkforgood.com/projects/303440-bald-eagle-rehabilitation-campaign
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