There’s something really special going on in Big Bear Valley, and it’s all thanks to a group called the Friends of Big Bear Valley. If you’ve ever watched a bald eagle nest cam or seen those viral videos of Jackie and Shadow raising their chicks, you’ve likely heard their name before. This nonprofit is doing more than just protecting wildlife—it’s connecting people with nature in ways that feel fresh, real, and deeply meaningful.
Big Bear Valley isn’t just another scenic spot in California—it’s actually one of the most biologically diverse places in the entire country. And the Friends of Big Bear Valley is right at the heart of making sure it stays that way. Whether you’re a teacher, a nature lover, or just someone who likes to stream wildlife footage from your couch, this organization has something for you.
From live eagle nest cams to educational programs and habitat protection efforts, Friends of Big Bear Valley is making a big impact. If you’re curious about how they do it, what they’re working on now, and why it all matters, stick around. We’re diving into what makes this group so unique and how you can get involved, too.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Who Are the Friends of Big Bear Valley?
- The Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam: A Global Sensation
- Why Habitat Protection Matters in Big Bear Valley
- Educational Programs and Community Outreach
- How You Can Support Friends of Big Bear Valley
- Frequently Asked Questions
Who Are the Friends of Big Bear Valley?
Friends of Big Bear Valley, or FOBBV for short, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Big Bear Valley, California. Their main goal is to protect and preserve the natural environment of the area while also helping people connect with nature in meaningful ways.
What sets them apart is how they blend education with real-world conservation. They don’t just talk about protecting wildlife—they make it happen. Whether it’s through habitat restoration, public awareness campaigns, or wildlife monitoring, FOBBV is deeply involved in the community and beyond.
One of the big reasons people know about them is because of their work with the bald eagle nest cam. That project, featuring the now-famous Jackie and Shadow, brought thousands of people together online to watch eagle chicks grow in real time. It was more than just a livestream—it was a way to bring nature into homes and classrooms around the world.
The Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam: A Global Sensation
So, you might be wondering—how did a group in Big Bear Valley end up with a worldwide following? The answer lies in their eagle nest cam. For several weeks now, FOBBV has been streaming live footage of Jackie and Shadow’s nest, giving people an up-close look at how bald eagles raise their young.
This isn’t just a cool thing to watch—it’s educational, too. Teachers use the feed in classrooms, wildlife enthusiasts follow every update, and even casual viewers find themselves hooked. The chicks, born in 2025, have become something of a digital family, with updates shared regularly on their Facebook page and other platforms.
It’s not just about the eagles, either. The livestream also helps raise awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats. By letting people see wildlife up close, FOBBV is helping them understand why places like Big Bear Valley need to be preserved.
How the Nest Cam Works
- The camera is placed near the nest to capture high-quality footage without disturbing the birds.
- It’s a 24/7 stream, so viewers can tune in anytime to catch a moment.
- Updates are posted regularly, often with commentary from experts like Sandi Steers of FOBBV.
- Screen captures and video clips are only shared with permission to protect the integrity of the project.
Why Habitat Protection Matters in Big Bear Valley
Big Bear Valley is ranked as the seventh most biologically diverse place in the United States. That’s a pretty big deal. It’s home to a wide variety of plants and animals, many of which aren’t found anywhere else. But with that biodiversity comes responsibility.
FOBBV knows this well, which is why habitat protection is a core part of their mission. They work with local agencies, scientists, and volunteers to make sure the environment stays healthy for both wildlife and people. Their efforts include everything from cleaning up trails to monitoring endangered species.
One of the big challenges they face is human impact. As more people move to or visit the area, the natural environment can start to suffer. FOBBV steps in by educating the public, offering sustainable practices, and helping shape policies that protect the land.
They also run restoration projects, where volunteers can help replant native species, clean up waterways, or even build wildlife-friendly structures. It’s a hands-on way to be part of something bigger—literally and figuratively.
Educational Programs and Community Outreach
FOBBV doesn’t just protect nature—they teach people about it, too. Their educational programs are designed for all ages, from school kids to adults who want to learn more about their local environment.
Through guided hikes, nature workshops, and school visits, FOBBV makes environmental learning fun and accessible. They bring experts into the field, offer hands-on activities, and even host virtual events for those who can’t be there in person.
Classrooms around the world have followed the eagle family’s journey thanks to these programs. Teachers use the nest cam as a tool to teach biology, ecology, and even digital citizenship. It’s a unique way to blend science with technology, and it’s helping students everywhere connect with nature in a whole new way.
FOBBV also partners with local schools and environmental groups to make sure their programs reach as many people as possible. They’ve even had students participate in citizen science projects, where they collect real data that helps scientists understand more about local wildlife.
How You Can Support Friends of Big Bear Valley
You don’t have to live in Big Bear Valley to be part of what FOBBV is doing. There are plenty of ways to get involved, whether you’re near or far. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Follow their updates: Check out their Facebook page for the latest eagle news, habitat updates, and event announcements.
- Donate: As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, FOBBV relies on contributions to fund their programs and projects. Even a small donation can make a big difference.
- Volunteer: If you’re local, they often need volunteers for trail cleanups, wildlife monitoring, and educational events.
- Share the message: Spread the word about FOBBV on social media or with your friends. The more people know, the more support they can get.
And if you really want to dive in, you can even join one of their guided nature walks or sign up for a workshop. It’s a great way to learn more while helping out a good cause.
Learn more about how you can support wildlife conservation and community education by getting involved with Friends of Big Bear Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Friends of Big Bear Valley do?
Friends of Big Bear Valley is a nonprofit focused on protecting natural habitats and educating the public about wildlife and environmental conservation. They run educational programs, habitat restoration projects, and operate live wildlife cameras like the eagle nest cam.
How can I watch the Big Bear eagle nest cam?
The eagle nest cam is available online through the Friends of Big Bear Valley’s official platforms. You can view the live feed and follow updates on their Facebook page, where they post regular eagle stories and footage.
Is Friends of Big Bear Valley involved in local education?
Absolutely. FOBBV offers environmental education programs for schools and the general public. These include guided hikes, classroom visits, and virtual learning opportunities, especially during events like the eagle nesting season.
