San Bernardino National Forest officials Tuesday, Dec. 1, closed an area around a bald eagle nest in Fawnskin, Calif., on the northwest side of Big Bear Lake. The annual closure includes a portion of the Grays Peak Trail and the Grout Bay Picnic Area. Two adult eagles, locally known as Jackie and Shadow, have been working on the nest in recent weeks, bringing in sticks and other building materials. Such behavior signifies the intent to mate and raise a brood.
The closure helps protect the nesting site and maintain natural bald eagle behavior. The species is sensitive to human interference and may abandon nesting activities, including eggs and offspring, if feeling threatened.Â