Wildlife Advocate Says Eaglets in Big Bear at Risk Because of 4th of July Fireworks

A wildlife advocate says the fireworks in Big Bear could seriously impact the young bald eagles born just a few months ago … and, they need to be stopped.

We spoke with Sandy Steers — the executive director of the environmental org. the Friends of Big Bear Valley — about the July 4th fireworks show in the area … and, she says she worries about all kinds of wildlife this time of year.

However, she’s especially concerned about the eagles … who she say have poor night vision — and, if they freak out and jump from the nest they could run into a tree or get otherwise hurt.

Steers says all the hullabaloo around the 4th drastically lowers the eagles’ chance of survival … especially during their first year.

Her solution’s simple … do away with the fireworks around the Fourth like they have around Memorial Day and Labor Day — a move she says local leaders have been particularly resistant to.

Steers says she’s been told tourism and economics are the reasons they won’t end this show … but, she thinks a quieter performance — like a drone show — would still bring people out to the wilderness.

The fireworks are only a few hours away … but, perhaps Steers and her org will get their wish in 2026.