Animal activists campaign for cougar crossing in Agoura Hills

AGOURA HILLS, Calif. (KABC) -- Los Angeles animal activists launched a campaign to save mountain lions. They're pushing for a bridge to be built over the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills to allow the big cats to cross without hassle.

"There are more and more people in the urban interface with the mountains, and the animals don't really understand what's going on and they want to get to the other side," said Dash Stolarz, an animal rights advocate.

The bridge would be built in Liberty Canyon in Agoura Hills and would look similar to bridges in Europe. Supporters insist it's what's needed to help the species thrive.

"They're actually placing it where they have evidence that these animals are going back and forth," animal activist Alison Simard said.

The bridge is estimated to cost between $10 and $30 million.

Los Angeles resident Ken Brandon said that would be a waste of money.

"I just don't think you should spend the tax money like that. You could do something better," Brandon said.

Mountain lions are not an endangered species in California.

They're also dangerous. Earlier this month, a 6-year-old in the Bay Area was attacked.

But animal activists are standing their ground, hoping a bridge will allow the big cats to come and go without risking their lives crossing the freeway.