Eagle experts ask public to give space to team assisting recovery of bald eagle
FAWNSKIN, Calif. (KESQ) – As Jackie the bald eagle continues to recover at the Ojai Raptor Center, online discussion is sparking debate over the care she is receiving.
It comes after a difficult update from the center over the weekend where it reported the eagle remained in critical condition. Her packed cell volume (PCV) – a measure of red blood cells in blood – had increased to 9% after decreasing to 6% earlier in the weekend. A healthy bald eagle usually has a PCV of 35% to 55%.
The debate online can be a distraction to those caring for her.
“When they have to focus on that kind of thing or dealing with interruptions, that just takes away time and focus from Jackie,” said Jenny Voisard, the media manager with nonprofit Friends of Big Bear Valley.
The organization, which runs the Eagle Cam that popularized beloved bald eagles Jackie and Shadow, spoke out about the social media buzz that sometimes does more harm than good.
She explained that the Ojai Raptor Center is a small operation and does not have a large team that can respond to the influx of messages and inquiries from the public.
“You know, because of her popularity, she was taken care of,” Voisard explained. “It’s a double edged sword. Sometimes the popularity can be overwhelming for people, but at the end of the day, we’re so happy that she was rescued and she’s at Ojai because she wouldn’t be with us today. And they’re doing everything they can.”
We’ll continue monitoring the latest on Jackie’s condition. Tonight, we’re also bringing you more of Voisard’s comments as she, like everyone else, patiently waits and holds out hope for a positive update from the Ojai Raptor Center.
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