Thousands Back Petition to Move July 4 Fireworks Away From Big Bear Bald Eagle Nest

With Independence Day fast approaching, wildlife advocates are urging officials to relocate the July 4 fireworks launch site away from a well-known bald eagle nest in Big Bear. Organizers have circulated a petition saying the planned display could disturb two juvenile eaglets at a particularly vulnerable stage of development.

According to the petition, the eaglets—named Sandy and Luna—hatched on April 4 and April 5 after Big Bear's resident pair, Jackie and Shadow, produced a rare second clutch in 2026. Predators reportedly took the pair's first eggs in January, and the April hatch dates mean the young birds will be roughly 12 weeks old on July 4.

Supporters warn that "sudden explosive noise, concussive blasts, and bright flashes have the potential to startle young birds," which could trigger a dangerous panic response while the eaglets are still building strength and coordination needed for fledging.

To build momentum, the petition was shared on the r/conservation subreddit, where readers were asked to sign and several users described last year’s disturbances. One commenter said that other local birds observed on livestream cams—identified as Sunny and Gizmo by the poster—went into hiding for several days when fireworks lit up the roost area.

What Supporters Are Asking

Organizers are urging decision-makers to either move the fireworks launch site farther from the nesting territory or to choose lower-impact alternatives, such as drone light shows or land-based displays located well away from critical habitat. As of this writing, the petition is approaching 4,000 verified signatures, with multiple weeks to go before July 4. Campaigners note that more than 40,000 people raised related concerns last year.

"We are asking decision-makers to relocate the fireworks launch site away from critical bald eagle habitat," the petition states, adding that alternatives could reduce disturbance to the nest.

Advocates emphasize that their appeal centers on timing and nestling behavior rather than the species’ broader conservation status. While one skeptic pointed out that bald eagles are no longer endangered, petition backers respond that federal protections and the eaglets’ immediate welfare warrant precautionary steps.

Organizers say they are actively engaging local officials and hope to finalize a safer plan before Independence Day. The petition provides specific recommendations and asks the public to sign and contact local authorities to encourage a lower-impact celebration.