Florida Panthers are subspecies of Mountain Lion and are known for their elusive nature. They are highly independent and territorial, except when mating or raising kittens. Compared to other subspecies, Florida Panthers have characteristics of a crooked tail, unique patches on their fur, and black markings that highlight the tips of their tails, ears, and snout. They prefer warm climates like swamps, wetlands, and upland forests. In the past, their range extended beyond Florida, and many wild panthers were spotted in the Gulf Coast states, between Florida and Louisiana, and even in Arkansas. However, today, a majority of the remaining wild panthers can be found only in the southwestern tip of Florida, with an estimated population of just over 200 individuals.
Proposed Everglades to Gulf Conservation Area Would Protect Lands Most Important To Wildlife & Waters
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is embarking on an ambitious new effort to establish an Everglades to Gulf Conservation Area (formerly known as the Southwest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Area). If successful, a new conservation area would allow the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to work with willing landowners to protect the lands most important to our water and wildlife, in one of the most biologically diverse regions in our country. The USFWS has released a draft Everglades to Gulf Land Protection Plan and is seeking input.
Protecting The Kissimmee River Valley: For Our Water & Wildlife
The state of Florida has just conserved more than 3,068 acres of rural ranchland along the Kissimmee River in Highlands County. The conservation easement was secured by the Florida Conservation Group, partnering with the National Wildlife Refuge Association and the Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The Florida Cabinet unanimously approved the purchase on May 23, 2023. We are proud to be a part of this land conservation victory.