A bald eaglet named Sandy accidentally fledged from her nest in Big Bear Valley on Sunday morning after losing her balance during an interaction with her sibling.
The incident occurred just before 11:30 a. m.
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and was captured live on the nest camera feed, according to the nonprofit organization Friends of Big Bear Valley.
Sandy and her sibling, Luna, both hatched in April. They were positioned in front of the nest when the fall happened.
Luna attempted to jump over Sandy to return to the nest, causing Sandy to tumble onto the branches below.
She then freed herself and landed further down.
Camera operators later observed Sandy flying to a different location. Representatives from the nonprofit organization shared updates regarding the young eagle's condition.
Friends of Big Bear Valley said Sandy "looked good in her flight." The nonprofit further noted that the eaglet was "likely relaxing from her unexpected adventure."
Camera operators are currently searching for Sandy.
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While the search continues, the organization stated that the parent eagles, Jackie and Shadow, will maintain a watchful eye on Sandy to ensure she remains fed.
According to Friends of Big Bear Valley, chicks in the Big Bear region historically develop the necessary feathers and wing muscles to fly at approximately 13 weeks of age.
However, the organization notes that individual eaglets can fledge whenever they are fully ready.
The incident coincides with a growing online petition demanding the cancellation of the Fourth of July fireworks show in Big Bear to protect the eagle family.
Although Friends of Big Bear Valley is not sponsoring the petition, the group expressed concern that the loud displays could frighten Jackie and Shadow, potentially leaving the young eaglets unprotected.
Local authorities stated that the traditional fireworks show will proceed as planned.
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Big Bear officials noted the event has run for about 60 years and takes place two miles away from the nest, with more than 125,000 visitors expected over the holiday weekend.
