Florida Panther Conservation and Challenges

The Florida Panther, a subspecies of puma, is the only known breeding population in the eastern U.S. Listed as endangered in 1967, efforts have been made to recover its population. Panthers live in sub-tropical environments and face threats from habitat loss and human activities. Conservation efforts have increased their numbers, but challenges remain. The panther's range is now limited to southern Florida, with recovery goals focusing on establishing stable populations and securing habitats.

What is the primary goal of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's recovery plan for the Florida panther?

• To relocate panthers to other states

• To establish three populations of at least 240 individuals each

• To increase the panther population to 500 individuals

• To breed panthers in captivity

Which environments do Florida panthers primarily inhabit?

• Deserts and arid regions

• Sub-tropical environments like wetlands and forests

• Mountainous regions

• Urban areas and cities

What is the main prey of the Florida panther?

• American alligator

• Wild hogs

• Rabbits

• White-tailed deer

What invasive species is a threat to the Florida panther by competing for prey?

• Asian carp

• Africanized bee

• Burmese python

• European starling

How has the range of the Florida panther changed over time?

• It is now restricted to less than five percent of its historic range

• It has expanded to cover the entire United States

• It has expanded to include Canada

• It has remained the same since the 1900s

What significant event occurred in 2016 regarding the Florida panther's range?

• Panthers were relocated to Texas

• The panther population reached 500 individuals

• A female panther crossed the Caloosahatchee River

• A male panther was spotted in New York

What is one of the greatest threats to the Florida panther?

• Climate change

• Vehicle collisions

• Predation by wolves

• Lack of food

What is a critical factor for the recovery of the Florida panther?

• Increasing the number of zoos

• Public support and habitat conservation

• Introducing new predators

• Building more roads

What role do private landowners play in the recovery of the Florida panther?

• They are responsible for breeding panthers

• They are tasked with hunting invasive species

• They provide habitat and support for panther populations

• They are required to relocate panthers

What is a major challenge in planning for panther habitat?

• Too much available land

• Overpopulation of panthers

• Urbanization and residential development

• Lack of interest from the public