Latest news with #ProtectthePanther
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Experts raise alarm as state's iconic species faces rapid decline: 'We are at a critical juncture now'
The Florida panther, according to the Florida Wildlife Federation, is the most endangered cat in North America. In 2024, 36 panthers were killed. These deaths were often the result of car collisions, and that trend is continuing in 2025. During a two-week period in January, two panthers were struck by cars just 70 miles away from each other, according to CBS News. The implications are alarming, as only an estimated 120-230 adult panthers are left in the wild. In the past, the main threats to the panther were hunting and genetic defects caused by inbreeding. Now, however, vehicular accidents are one of the leading causes of panther deaths. The Florida-based conservation program Panther Crossing reported that more than 240 panthers were killed by cars in the last 10 years. Habitat loss plays a significant role in this staggering number of vehicle-related panther deaths. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the endangered species has made an impressive comeback since the late 1960s, when there were an estimated 10 panthers left. While this is a feat, the animal is still in danger of extinction. "We are at a critical juncture now. We're going to see more and more deaths," Sierra Club organizing representative Michael McGrath said to CBS News. When animals are dispersed from their natural habitats, human-animal encounters increase. In Florida, specifically, road and town development have left panthers to navigate traffic while looking for food, territory, and mates, which is a danger to humans living and driving in these areas as well as to the species. When an animal goes extinct, the biodiversity in their ecosystem suffers. According to the Florida Museum, panthers are important to Florida's food webs, helping to maintain the populations of wild hogs and other native species. Floridians are passionate about their panthers. Because of this loyalty, there are several programs and organizations dedicated to protecting and diversifying the Florida panther. Panther Crossing, for example, provides tips on how to avoid dangerous on-the-road encounters with panthers. Additionally, The Nature Conservancy owns over 2,800 acres of protected land in support of the panther. Should the government be paying people to hunt invasive species? Definitely Depends on the animal No way Just let people do it for free Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. This advocacy goes beyond nonprofit organizations, as state lawmakers are working on solutions to save the species. There are 60 wildlife crossings and bridges to allow the safe passage of panthers. Protect the Panther license plates are available for sale to residents. Proceeds go to the Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Cuteness alert! FWC researchers track, care for rare Florida panther cubs
The Brief Florida wildlife officials checked on three Florida panther cubs, less than a month old, as part of conservation efforts. Researchers dewormed, microchipped, and collected genetic samples from the cubs, whose survival rate is below 32%. Supporters can help protect the species by donating or purchasing a "Protect the Panther" license plate. ORLANDO, Fla. - Florida wildlife officials checked on three Florida panther cubs, less than a month old, as part of conservation efforts. What we know Florida wildlife officials recently checked on three Florida panther cubs, all less than a month old. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has been tracking their mother, identified as FP269, and located her den. The backstory Florida panthers are an endangered species, and researchers monitor them closely to aid conservation efforts. The cubs were dewormed, microchipped, and had genetic samples taken to help track their health and lineage. However, their survival rate is low, estimated at under 32%. What you can do Florida panthers face significant threats, including habitat loss and vehicle collisions. Conservationists work to protect the species, and the public can support efforts through donations or purchasing "Protect the Panther" license plates. What they're saying FWC officials emphasize the importance of monitoring and intervention. Their ongoing research helps improve survival rates, but continued support is crucial for the panther population's future. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO: Download the FOX Local app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines FOX Local:Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV The Source This story was written based on information shared by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
PHOTOS: FWC introduces 3 new Florida panther kittens
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) introduced three new Florida panther kittens on Wednesday. The kittens, known as K525, K526, and K527, are between two and four weeks old. Researchers said they used the mother's GPS collar data to determine when she left the den to hunt. Newborn kittens rescued from wrecked car moments before demolition Biologists located the den, and each kitten was sexed, weighed, dewormed, microchipped for ID, and had a biopsy sample taken for genetic assessment, according to FWRI. The litter's mother, FP269, had given birth to three kittens last season; however, FWRI said they were likely preyed on by a black bear. 'The survival rate for Florida panther kittens to make it to year one is low – only 32%. It's tough being a panther; it's even tougher being a Florida panther kitten!' FWRI said in a Facebook post. FWRI said Florida residents can support research and conservation efforts for the next generation of Florida panthers by purchasing a 'Protect the Panther' license plate. You can also donate to the Florida Panther Fund via the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
FWC collars heaviest Florida panther ever recorded: See the photos
The Brief FWC biologists recently captured and collared the heaviest Florida panther ever recorded, weighing 166 pounds. The collaring is part of an ongoing research program to monitor the panther's health, movements, and population, providing vital data to aid in conservation efforts for the endangered species. ORLANDO, Fla. - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute recently made an exciting discovery! What we know The heaviest Florida panther ever recorded, weighing an impressive 166 pounds, was recently captured and fitted with a tracking collar by biologists from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Typically, male panthers can weigh up to 160 pounds, with females weighing as much as 100 pounds, officials said. What we don't know FOX 35 News is working to learn when and where the panther was found. Dig deeper According to the FWC, collaring the panther is part of a long-term research program that allows wildlife officials to monitor panther movements, health and population dynamics. The project supplies crucial information to support conservation initiatives for the endangered Florida panther. What they're saying "When collaring a panther, biologists conduct a comprehensive health assessment that includes blood tests and collecting tissue samples for genetic analysis," the FWC said in a social media post. "The GPS collars deployed on panthers allow researchers to track movement patterns, survival, reproduction and habitat use, all of which help inform science-based management strategies that are critical to the recovery of this population." MORE NEWS: Central Florida animal rescue to shut down; 22 dogs need homes What you can do You can support the FWC's panther research by purchasing a Protect the Panther license plate. All proceeds will go directly toward funding these vital projects. To report a panther sighting or to learn more about the program, click here. The Source This story was written based on information shared by the FWC.
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Heaviest Florida panther ever recorded captured and collared: FWC
The Brief The heaviest Florida panther ever recorded was captured and collared, according to the FWC. The 166 pound panther was given a GPS collar, so that researchers can monitor its movements, health and population dynamics. You can support these projects directly by purchasing a 'Protect the Panther' tag. TAMPA, Fla. - The heaviest Florida panther ever recorded was captured by biologists with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as conservation efforts to protect the endangered animal continue. The 166 pound panther was given a GPS collar, so that researchers could monitor its movements, health and population dynamics. Collaring a panther consists of a comprehensive health assessment with blood tests and tissue sample collection for genetic analysis. READ: Removal of 'Bending Arc' sculpture to begin This effort to track these animals is part of a long-term research program, which helps support efforts to protect them. What you can do You can support these projects directly by purchasing a 'Protect the Panther' tag. CLICK HERE:>>>Follow FOX 13 on YouTube The Source Information for this story was provided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV Download FOX Local mobile app: Apple | Android Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines Download the SkyTower Radar app Sign up for FOX 13's daily newsletter
