Florida Panther (Puma concolor coryi)
Cat Family (Felidae)
Florida panther is a large cat, reaching over 7 ft long and 150 lbs. It is tawny above and whitish below. It has a relatively small head and short face with short rounded ears. The back of the ears and sides of muzzle are black. Its long rounded tail is darker towards its tip and can be 40% of their total length. Many individuals have a kinked tail at its end and a cowlick on their back. Males are larger than the females. Juveniles are lighter and dark-spotted for a time. Most active around dawn and dusk. Generally solitary, but territories do overlap, especially with females. Breeding peaks in the fall and winter with birthing taking place in the late spring. Females have litters about every 2 years and are the sole caregiver. Usually silent, but may utter chirps, peeps, whistles, purrs, moans, screams, growls, hisses, and yowling by females when ready to mate. Strict carnivore with wild hog, deer, raccoon, and armadillo constituting their main diet. Depends on dense hardwood hammocks and pinelands habitats for survival, but may also be found in swamps, marshes, and prairies, as well as others. Mainly found in south Florida, especially southwest Florida. Also known as coo-wah-chobee (Big Cat) by the Seminoles. Used to have the scientific name of Felis concolor coryi. Listed as endangered federally and by the state of Florida and Georgia.
Copyright Brett Miley
