According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 2024 saw the highest number of Florida panther deaths in eight years, with a total of 36 panthers killed, surpassing the 42 deaths recorded in 2016.

The year’s final reported death was a 2-year-old male struck by a vehicle in Lee County on December 26, marking the 36th panther death of 2024. Of these deaths, 29 were due to vehicle collisions.

In early December, Jason Totoui, Senior Attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity, commented on this grim milestone, stating, “This little panther’s tragic death illustrates the dire need for wildlife officials and state lawmakers to save this species before it’s too late. Development keeps eating away at the little bit of habitat left in southwest Florida.”

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Florida panthers are an endangered species, protected by law from harm or harassment. These big cats predominantly live south of Lake Okeechobee, with an estimated population of up to 230 adult panthers. 

The first panther death of 2024 occurred just nine days into the new year when a 1-year-old male was killed in Hendry County. This number contrasts sharply with the previous year, where only 13 panthers died in 2023.

Habitat loss due to new construction of roads, highways, and developments is a major threat to their survival, reducing the available space for territory, prey, and mating, as noted by The Nature Conservancy.

Should you encounter a Florida panther that is sick, injured, or dead. In that case, you can report it by calling 888-404-FWC, texting 847411 with the keyword “FWC” and information about the violation, emailing Tip@MyFWC.com, or reporting online at: MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert

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(Image credit: WTSP)