Florida Panther

The Florida Panther is a rare and endangered wildcat native to Florida, characterized by its large size, tawny color, and prominent facial markings. As a subspecies of the cougar, it plays a vital role in its ecosystem as an apex predator, helping control populations of smaller animals. Habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and disease have severely reduced its numbers, making conservation efforts crucial. Today, fewer than 200 Florida Panthers are believed to exist in the wild, primarily in protected areas, with ongoing efforts focused on habitat preservation, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and supporting genetic diversity to ensure their survival.