Coyote becomes first mammal to use unfinished 101 wildlife bridge

A coyote became the first large mammal to use the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills. Surveillance cameras recorded the animal traversing the structure twice in the past week. The first sighting occurred last week. The second capture happened Thursday morning, showing the coyote holding a bone or stick in its mouth.

The bridge is scheduled to officially open next month. Construction began in 2022 to provide a safe passage between the Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills. Beth Pratt, president of the Wildlife Crossing Fund, said the animals are already utilizing the infrastructure before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pratt stated, "The animals are already blessing this crossing and saying, 'Yep, you got it right.'"

Pratt noted that it is unclear if the two sightings involve the same individual. She suggested the coyote’s presence validates the design. Pratt also highlighted the cultural connection, calling the coyote the Los Angeles mascot alongside the famous urban coyote P-22.

The National Park Service is currently installing additional cameras along the crossing. These new devices will document and study animal movement patterns. The agency plans to release images to the public but will not provide a live stream. Pratt explained that security concerns in Los Angeles prevent a live feed. She said, "We can't, for security reasons, because this is L.A., and if there's a mountain lion going across, somebody's gonna go try to pet it."

The crossing spans the busy 101 Freeway. The project followed years of research into wildlife movement in the region. The early usage by the coyote provides initial data for the Park Service’s ongoing study. The official opening will mark the completion of the structure’s public access.