Three mountain lion kittens discovered in Simi Hills den

Biologists found three blue-eyed cougar young inside a Simi Hills den north of the 101 Freeway. The discovery offers hope for an isolated wild animal group facing urban growth and habitat loss. The Ventura County Star reported the finding by National Park Service staff.

The litter has one male and two females. Wildlife biologist Jeff Sikich examined the animals briefly. Sikich told the newspaper all three young cougars appeared healthy.

Agency researchers named the young animals:

• P-141
• P-142
• P-143

GPS tracking data showed the mother, P-113, staying in one location for an extended period. Researchers hiked to the location to inspect the area. They found the kittens inside the den.

P-113 traveled with an adult male named P-124 several months earlier. The newspaper reported that detail from tracking logs. Cougar gestation lasts about 90 days. Biologists are monitoring her first litter.

Roads and development isolate cougars in the Santa Monica Mountains. This separation causes inbreeding and low genetic diversity. It also triggers deadly territorial clashes between animals.

The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over the 101 Freeway is expected to open later this year. Researchers hope the bridge connects the separated populations.

If the young cougars cross into the Santa Monica Mountains, they could introduce crucial genetic diversity, Sikich told the newspaper. The kittens will remain with their mother for roughly 18 months.

They will then leave. Tracking collars help park biologists study wild predator movement. Field workers follow tracking signals to monitor animal health across regional park corridors.

The young cougars remain in the Simi Hills under observation. Biologists continue tracking the mother by satellite.