Timing of July 4th fireworks couldn't be worse for Big Bear eaglets, advocates say
Key takeaways
- Last year, a petition to halt Big Bear Lake’s annual fireworks display collected more than 40,000 signatures from people concerned that the event would disturb the area’s famous bald eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow.
- This year, opponents say that the stakes are higher because the couple’s nest is home to two young eaglets — Sandy and Luna — who have yet to take flight.
- “On July 4th, Sandy and Luna may still be developing the coordination, strength, and flight skills necessary for safe fledging,” states this year’s petition, which so far has collected more than 12,500 signatures.
Sandy and Luna, perched beside the family nest Tuesday, will be teetering on the brink of safe flight just as an explosive fireworks will be held in the vicinity, a new petition says. (Friends of Big Bear Valley) By Clara Harter Staff Writer Follow June 24, 2026 3 AM PT Share via Close extra sharing options Email Facebook X Linked In Threads Reddit Whats App Copy Link URL Copied! Print p]:text-cms-story-body-color-text clearfix mb-10 md:max-w-170 md:mx-auto" data-subscriber-content> What’s more American than fireworks on the Fourth of July? How about protecting a beloved family of bald eagles, environmental advocates say.
Last year, a petition to halt Big Bear Lake’s annual fireworks display collected more than 40,000 signatures from people concerned that the event would disturb the area’s famous bald eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow.
This year, opponents say that the stakes are higher because the couple’s nest is home to two young eaglets — Sandy and Luna — who have yet to take flight. A new petition has been started asking the city to either move the fireworks launch site farther from bald eagle habitat or to consider alternative celebrations such as drone light shows.