BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (VVNG.com) — CALM Zoo in Bakersfield introduced the public Friday to Spirit, the resident bald eagle whose blood donation helped make a life-saving transfusion possible for Jackie, the beloved Big Bear bald eagle recovering at the Ojai Raptor Center.
The post, shared July 24, comes one day after the Ojai Raptor Center announced Jackie had undergone a successful blood transfusion as veterinarians continue searching for the cause of the severe anemia that has left her in critical condition.
According to a written statement from CALM Zoo, Spirit has called the California Living Museum home for more than two decades after suffering injuries that left her permanently unable to return to the wild.
Spirit arrived at CALM Zoo in May 2003 after being transferred from another wildlife rehabilitation facility. She had originally been rescued by Animal Control after she was found unable to fly because of wing fractures. The zoo said she was also severely emaciated, had been scavenging for food and suffered trauma to her right eye.
After a lengthy rehabilitation, Spirit was determined to be non-releasable because of the long-term effects of her injuries.
For more than 20 years, Spirit has served as an ambassador for California’s native wildlife, helping educate visitors about conservation, wildlife rehabilitation and the challenges many wild animals face.
Now, she has become part of another remarkable wildlife story.
According to CALM Zoo, its Animal Care Team performed a minimally invasive blood draw from Spirit as part of a collaborative effort with the Ojai Raptor Center. The donated blood was safely transported to Ventura County, where it was used in Jackie’s life-saving transfusion.
“After her quick procedure, Spirit was rewarded with some extra trout for doing her part to help another eagle in need,” the zoo said.
CALM Zoo thanked the Ojai Raptor Center for its partnership and said it was grateful for the opportunity to assist in Jackie’s care.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside an organization so dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of birds of prey,” the zoo said.
The collaboration also included the Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group in Ventura, which provided advanced CT imaging for Jackie, along with wildlife specialists from multiple organizations working to determine the cause of her severe anemia.
According to the latest updates from the Ojai Raptor Center and Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV), Jackie continues showing encouraging signs despite remaining in critical condition.
FOBBV reported Thursday that Jackie remains alert, is perching, and is eating both with assistance and on her own. The organization said she is receiving numerous medications, which may inhibit her desire to eat independently, but noted that her energy continues to improve and that she remains “feisty with the staff.”
The organization also said laboratory testing ruled out lead toxicity, while zinc test results are still pending. Although there is no definitive test for rodenticide poisoning, veterinarians are treating Jackie for possible exposure even though they do not believe it is the cause of her illness.
FOBBV said Jackie remains severely anemic, though veterinarians have not yet determined why. The organization reported she appears to be holding her own following the blood transfusion she received late Monday.
Her kidney values have improved, and a CT scan found no obvious signs of cancer or any metal objects inside her body.
The Ojai Raptor Center previously reported that initial testing also ruled out foreign objects such as fishing hooks, lines and weights. A team of veterinary specialists continues working to determine the underlying cause of Jackie’s anemia while she receives intensive care.
Despite the encouraging progress, both organizations cautioned that Jackie remains in critical condition.
FOBBV said Jackie “can turn in a moment,” while the Ojai Raptor Center has emphasized that it is still too early to predict the outcome of her recovery.
CALM Zoo said Spirit’s story is a reminder that non-releasable wildlife can continue making a meaningful impact long after their own rehabilitation ends.
“Spirit is just one of many non-releasable animals that call CALM Zoo home,” the organization said. “Together, they help inspire a greater appreciation for wildlife, conservation, and the importance of giving native animals a second chance.”
The zoo also expressed hope for Jackie’s recovery.
“We wish patient #26-519 a smooth and speedy recovery and are grateful to everyone working tirelessly to help this magnificent bird,” the organization said. “Partnerships like this demonstrate how wildlife organizations can work together to make a meaningful difference for California’s native species.”
Supporters wishing to help Jackie and other injured birds of prey can donate 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
