There’s a new face at Big Bear’s famous bald eagle nest in Southern California, and viewers are already invested.
A young female eagle known as KD1, or "Katie" to some fans, has recently been seen alongside Shadow, the male bald eagle who spent years raising a family with his longtime mate, Jackie.
On Saturday, Aug. 15, Shadow and Katie spent hours together in the nest, according to the Friends of Big Bear Valley Facebook page. Shadow’s first visit to the nest since July 23 happened the day before, which was the first time the two eagles had been seen there together.
The moment comes shortly after the death of Jackie, whose life with Shadow was followed by millions through Friends of Big Bear Valley’s livestream cameras in the San Bernardino National Forest.
Jackie died Aug. 10 after more than three weeks of intensive medical care, according to the Ojai Raptor Center. The injured eagle, believed to be Jackie, had been rescued after sustaining injuries following an altercation with other birds.
Katie is KD1, a banded female bald eagle previously spotted around Big Bear Valley. Because of her band, observers have identified her as a younger eagle from Southern California.
The Friends of Big Bear Valley group has cautioned against reading too much into the interactions just yet. Bald eagles are wild animals, and Katie spending time near Shadow does not necessarily mean she will become his next mate.
That distinction hasn't stopped fans from getting invested.
On the Friends of Big Bear Valley Facebook page, commenters have been sharing their excitement, grief and plenty of jokes about Shadow’s new companion.
"I have an addiction to watching for HOURS now," one commenter wrote, adding that while they were "still missing Jackie," they “absolutely adore this new lil lady that is keeping him company."
Another fan imagined what Shadow’s dating profile might look like ahead of mating season.
"Recently widowed, handsome middle-aged man, chortles well, excellent fisherman and nest builder, superb father, has secure roost tree and 14-story tall mansion overlooking Big Bear Lake," the commenter joked. "Check him out, ladies!"
For others, Katie’s arrival has taken on a more sentimental meaning.
"I think Jackie sent this beautiful new lady to take care of her beloved Shadow," another commenter wrote. "It’s so great that we will be able to continue to see new babies in the nest. Just have to wait & see."