Florida

Florida Sets New Record for Documented Panther Deaths

Florida set a new record for documented panther deaths after two males were hit by cars and killed.

The Naples Daily News reports that 35 big cat deaths have been recorded this year, with 25 of those being road kills, which ties a state record.

The Florida panther is one of the most endangered species on the planet, with FWC biologists estimating there are 100 to 180 in the wild.

There are certainly more cats in Florida now than there have been in decades, and biologists say the higher number of overall deaths and road kills is partially due to the growing population.

Two male panthers died Monday. The first is thought to have been 8 to 10 months in age, with the second cat nearly 3 years old.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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