The Florida panther, Florida’s official state animal, has been listed as a federally endangered species since 1967. In the southeastern U.S., panthers formerly ranged throughout Florida, as far west as Arkansas and as far north as South Carolina. Today only about 120-230 adult panthers exist, primarily in Southwest Florida.

As the state grows, suitable habitat for panthers and wildlife shrinks. Encounters Florida panthers are relatively rare but do occur, particularly in rural parts of Florida.

If you feel threatened by a panther, have lost pets or livestock a panther, or to injured or dead you can call the and Wildlife Conservation’s Wildlife Alert Hotline 404-FWCC. ¦

Florida panther tracks are easily distinguishable from other animal tracks by three specific characteristics:

1. Claw imprints in front of the toes are absent when the panther is walking.

2. The front edge of the heel pad is squared.

3. The rear edge of the heel pad has three lobes.

Living safely with Florida panthers

Free-roaming pets, or pets that are tethered and unfenced, are easy prey for predators, including panthers. Bring pets inside or keep them in a secure and covered kennel at night. Feeding pets outside also may attract raccoons and other panther prey; do not leave uneaten pet food available to wildlife.

Outdoor lighting, motion sensors and electric fencing may deter prey animals and panthers from entering your yard. Outdoor lighting also will make approaching prey and panthers more visible to you.

Hike or bike with a friend

When recreating outdoors, it’s a good practice to let friends or family know your whereabouts and when you expect to return. Better yet, take a friend with you!

Adult male prints average 3¼ inches square.

This was a very well written article. I live in Lakeland now, but many years ago I lived in Columbia Falls, Maine. We call them Mountain Lions up North. I encountered one in my front yard, my dog was barking to bring my attention to it. I opened the door and just 10-15 ft away was the most beautiful cat that I ever saw. It must not have been hungry because my little dog was left alone, it looked at me took 2 big leaps and it was gone. Game Warden’s wouldn’t believe me without pictures. I know what I saw and it was exactly like your picture of your panther.

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