Coyote first animal to cross new wildlife bridge over 101 freeway in Agoura Hills

KTLA reported that a coyote became the first documented animal to cross the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over the 101 freeway in Agoura Hills, northwest of Los Angeles. The crossing occurred at 1:35 a.m. Thursday and was captured by two cameras, according to the National Park Service.

The wildlife crossing is the largest of its kind in the world and was built to reconnect habitats fragmented by the busy freeway. It aims to support species such as mountain lions and bears, restore biodiversity, and serve as a model for future crossings.

Construction of the $114 million project began in 2022 after extensive planning and fundraising. The main concrete bridge, measuring 210 feet long and 174 feet wide, was completed over a year ago, with recent work connecting the bridge to the surrounding terrain.

Biologist Jeff Sikich and Save L.A. Cougars campaign leader Beth Pratt had each predicted which animal would be the first to use the crossing. Sikich had predicted a coyote, which was confirmed by the camera footage. The campaign plans to poll the public on when a mountain lion will first use the bridge.