Veterinarians at the Ojai Raptor Center fitted Jackie, Big Bear Lake's famed bald eagle, with a protective plastic tail guard on July 31, 2026.
The device aims to prevent further damage to her tail feathers during rehabilitation.
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Caregivers placed the lightweight sleeve over her tail feathers to avoid bending or breakage.
Jackie, also tracked as Patient 26-519, was reported bright and alert while tolerating the equipment well.
The recovery effort began after two subadult eagles attacked the 14-year-old bird on July 17.
Although Jackie successfully fended off the intruders using her talons, the ordeal left her severely anemic and suffering from kidney inflammation, requiring intensive care and oxygen treatment.
"Damaged or tattered tail feathers can significantly impact a bird's ability to fly once it is ready for release," said the Raptor Center, official with the wildlife rehabilitation organization.
Meanwhile, 170 miles away in Big Bear Lake, her 12-year-old mate, Shadow, continues to guard their nest territory.
Observers noted that one of the subadult eagles involved in the altercation, nicknamed "Jolene" by online fans, has stayed nearby.
Shadow has maintained distance from the young intruder, issuing stern warning calls and knocking the bird off the nest structure.
However, he permitted it to roost a few branches away.
"Shadow hasn't shown any friendliness towards it," said Jenny Voisard, spokeswoman for Friends of Big Bear Valley.
Experts clarified that a new partnership remains unlikely due to biological cycles and age differences.
