The wildlife bridge (corridor) over the freeway to the north side of the 101 Freeway is a non-starter and a waste of money.
First, the normal range that mountain lions normally forage covers hundreds of miles. The Santa Monica Mountain Range that abuts the 101 Freeway is over 35 miles in length and there are many overpasses over the freeway now. The current range open to the mountains spans from the Getty Museum to the farmlands of Oxnard in Ventura County.
Second, how do we let the mountain lions know that the bridge is built for them? They can’t read, so signs won’t work. Mountain lions usually avoid people and their structures. Should we use catnip to lure them across?
Third, did anyone consult the cities on the other side of the 101 to see if they want to have mountain lions crossing into their cities?
Fourth, we don’t need to spend $60,000 to make a few radical animal lovers smile at night. The most beneficial way to protect the lions is to simply trap them and relocate them to the best habitat available. The Cleveland National Park above Hearst Castle would be great for all concerned and cost a heck of a lot less.
Tom Bates