In a recent sighting at East Bay Regional Parks District’s (EBRPD) Pleasanton Ridge, a mountain lion family consisting of a mother and her three kittens was observed, marking the second confirmed appearance of a mountain lion family in the area. Last year, a different mother mountain lion with three cubs was seen near EBRPD’s Five Canyons Park, showcasing a positive trend of successful breeding within this region.
These sightings are an encouraging sign of the local mountain lion population’s resilience. However, the region’s geography, bounded by major highways such as I-580, Highway 84, and I-680, poses significant challenges for these young lions. Dispersing kittens face considerable risks as they navigate the fragmented landscape, which could hinder their ability to establish new territories and thrive.
The East Bay Wildlife Connectivity Project is actively addressing these challenges. This project, spearheaded by a team of experts from Alameda County Resource Conservation District, Mark Thomas, and Dudek, aims to establish a network of wildlife crossings that will enhance connectivity across the region. By linking critical habitats and reducing wildlife collisions on Bay Area highways, the project seeks to ensure that mountain lions and other species can move safely across the landscape, promoting a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem.
For more information, please see our website: https://acrcd.org/projects/transportation-wildlife-corridors/
