Coyote Becomes First Large Mammal Recorded Crossing New Wildlife Bridge Over Highway 101

AGOURA HILLS, Calif. — November 5, 2026. The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over U.S. Highway 101 has recorded a milestone before its scheduled public dedication: a coyote was photographed using the structure on October 28. The animal was the first large mammal recorded directly on the new wildlife bridge, according to a November 5 SFGATE report citing the National Wildlife Federation’s Save LA Cougars initiative.

Animals are beginning to find their own way

Biologists have recorded reptiles, butterflies and birds on the developing structure. Cameras have also shown mountain lions, deer and bobcats near the crossing. Those nearby sightings should not be presented as evidence that all those animals already crossed it. The October 28 coyote image is a distinct first observation on the bridge.

Why the $114 million crossing matters

The project aims to reconnect wildlife habitat separated by one of Southern California’s busiest freeways. The ten-lane highway has long made travel hazardous for mountain lions moving between the Santa Monica Mountains and habitat to the north. Maintaining movement between populations could help reduce the genetic isolation threatening local cougars. The project’s official event page schedules the ribbon-cutting for December 2, 2026; the early coyote sighting does not mean the bridge has formally opened.

What is left before opening?

Crews have been completing soil connections, native planting and other habitat work so the overpass resembles the surrounding hillside rather than a conventional road bridge. National Park Service researchers plan additional remote cameras for more systematic monitoring. The precise final timing could still depend on weather and construction conditions.

Visitors should not enter the construction area or attempt to photograph animals from freeway shoulders. A community celebration is planned at King Gillette Ranch on December 2; organizers list ticket requirements. California58 previously covered the scheduled opening and traffic context.

Sources: SFGATE, November 5, 2026; Save LA Cougars official ribbon-cutting information; Los Angeles Times October 8 project update. The coyote sighting is dated October 28, while this report was prepared November 5.

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