BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The highly anticipated “pip watch” is officially underway for the bald eagle pair Jackie and Shadow, as their eggs reach the critical hatching window, according to posts shared Tuesday by Friends of Big Bear Valley and the Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam.
“Pip Watch begins tomorrow and the eggs will be 35 and 32 days old,” the organization stated in a Facebook post on Monday, March 30, 2026. “Hatching is an arduous process and can take a couple of days.”
A “pip” refers to the first small crack or hole made by the chick as it begins hatching.
According to the update, the hatching process begins when eaglets use a temporary “egg tooth” to break through the internal membrane of the egg. At that stage, “baby chirps may be heard,” and the adult eagles may show increased restlessness, moving on and off the eggs more frequently.
The next phase, known as the “external pip,” occurs when the chick creates a visible hole in the eggshell. “Lots of work and rest comes next before the last push to remove the shell and the exhausted chick is here!” the post continued.
Wildlife observers are also watching for behavioral changes from Shadow, who may begin increasing food deliveries to the nest. “Shadow may begin more food deliveries to the nest, stockpiling the pantry in preparation for the new little arrivals,” according to the post.
Weather conditions are expected to cooperate during the crucial period. “Dry conditions are currently forecast for Easter weekend,” the organization noted.
In a separate post titled “The Egg-citement of Anticipation,” organizers described subtle changes already observed at the nest.
“Like the first day of school or the anticipation of something brand new, today begins with what we have all been waiting for: Pip Watch!” the post read. “We’ve noted that there has been a bit more movement on the nest at times by Jackie and Shadow during incubation sessions.”
The pair, described as experienced parents, have continued carefully tending to their eggs. “As experienced parents, they have been keeping an eagle eye on the nest bowl, watching and rolling the eggs with perfect precision.”
As the community watches closely, organizers expressed hope for a successful hatch. “So as we wait together to see what unfolds this week, let’s hope two healthy little miracles are added to Jackie and Shadow’s family!”
Viewers can follow the live nest activity in real time by visiting the Friends of Big Bear Valley live cam at youtube.com/@FOBBVCAM.
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