Florida Panther Conservation is presenting at Daggerwing Nature Center on April 6.
What: South Florida Animals: Florida Panther Conservation
When: Saturday, April 6, 11:00 a.m.
Where: Daggerwing Nature Center
Address: 11435 Park Access Road, west of Boca Raton
Register: pbcparksregistration.co
Enjoy a special presentation by a naturalist from the Florida Panther Conservation. Find out why these big cats are threatened and what you can do to ensure their protection and conservation.
The Florida panther is a subspecies of the cougar and is native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida. It is one of the most endangered mammals in the world, with an estimated population of fewer than 200 individuals remaining in the wild.
Description: Florida panthers are large, slender cats with tawny or brown fur. They have a whitish underside, and the backs of their ears are black with a white spot in the center. Adult males typically weigh between 100 to 160 pounds, while females are smaller, weighing between 70 to 100 pounds.
Habitat: Historically, Florida panthers ranged across the southeastern United States, from Arkansas and Louisiana to Florida and Georgia. However, due to habitat loss and fragmentation, their range has been greatly reduced. They now primarily inhabit the swamps, forests, and prairies of southern Florida, particularly the Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve.
Adaptations: Florida panthers have adapted to their environment by being excellent climbers and swimmers. They are also known for their exceptional vision and hearing.
Conservation Status: The Florida panther has faced numerous threats to its survival, including habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and genetic issues due to inbreeding. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Florida panther as an endangered species in 1967.
Legal Protection: Hunting of Florida panthers is strictly prohibited, and there are laws in place to protect their habitat. Conservation organizations and government agencies work together to monitor and manage the population to ensure its survival.
The Daggerwing Nature Center was established in the late 1980s and was named after the native daggerwing butterfly. The nature center is within the Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park, which spans over 800 acres in Boca Raton and includes a wide range of habitats, such as wetlands, pine flatwoods and cypress swamps.
The Daggerwing Nature Center is home to a butterfly sanctuary, elevated boardwalks and hiking trails for safe viewing of birds, reptiles and mammals in their natural habitats.
To sign up for South Florida Animals: Florida Panther Conservation go to www.pbcparks.com.
