Florida Panther Defenders of Wildlife

The Florida panther is the only puma (also known as cougar and mountain lion) population east of the Mississippi. Florida panthers once prowled and flourished in woodlands and swamps throughout the Southeast. When European settlers arrived in the 1600s, the clear-cutting, building and other human activities that destroy, degrade and fragment habitat began, and the fear and misconceptions that led to panther persecution took root. Today, the panther is recognized as Florida’s official state animal, but it is also one of the most endangered mammals in the country. Panthers are an umbrella species: protecting them and the vast, unspoiled, wild territory each one needs to survive - an average of 200 square miles for a single male - protects many other plants and animals that live there. At the top of the food chain, these cats help keep feral hog numbers in check and deer, raccoon and other prey populations balanced and healthy. 

Florida panther, Diet, Habitat, & Facts

Move over, Florida panthers! Refuge wants to let in more people - Florida Phoenix

Fate of the Florida panther could rest on this Collier County housing plan

The Florida panther could go extinct if this toll road is built, emails say

Striking a BALANCE - Fort Myers Florida Weekly

Florida Panther Festival

Coexisting with Florida Panthers

The Florida Panther: A Majestic And Endangered Feline

Ranchers Push to Get Florida Panther Off Endangered Species List

Phantom of the Pines: The Future of the Florida Panther - Environment - Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine