Ojai Raptor Center warns of unauthorized Jackie the eagle merchandise making false charity claims

In the weeks following the death of Jackie, Big Bear Valley's beloved bald eagle, a wave of merchandise bearing her image has flooded the market — and wildlife officials are sounding the alarm. The Ojai Raptor Center, the facility that oversaw Jackie's care, has issued a warning that some individuals and businesses selling Jackie-themed goods are falsely claiming that proceeds benefit the center.[1]

The false charity claims are drawing concern from those who knew Jackie best. According to the Ojai Raptor Center, Friends of Big Bear Valley — the local nonprofit that operates the live eagle nest camera that brought Jackie and her mate Shadow into living rooms around the world — was the only organization to reach out to the center directly about establishing an official merchandise collaboration.[1] Whether that collaboration came to fruition could not be confirmed based on available information.

For Big Bear Valley residents and the many fans who followed Jackie's life on camera, the situation is a cautionary one: before purchasing any Jackie merchandise, it's worth verifying whether the seller has a legitimate relationship with the Ojai Raptor Center or Friends of Big Bear Valley.

Anyone looking to support Jackie's legacy through a verified channel should contact the Ojai Raptor Center or Friends of Big Bear Valley directly to confirm which merchandise, if any, carries official authorization and actually directs funds to wildlife care.