The Florida Panther: Challenges to Keep This Endangered Species Moving Forward

Abstract

The endangered Florida panther (puma concolor coryi) continues to face challenges for expansion in the southern part of Florida. For decades, the Florida panther existence has been threatened by several factors such as genetic neurological conditions, and habitat displacement. With the rapidly growing population of Southwest Florida, the biggest danger for survival for the Florida panther today is habitat loss, and the proximity to busy roads and highways. The goal of this project is to display current Florida panther geographical range, areas with high indexes of vehicular mortality, and areas suitable for potential growth. Several datasets were obtained and manipulated to produce maps showing panther radio-collared telemetry readings, mortality records, and Florida land use over the years. A similar assessment was done to the Florida black bear, a species facing similar habitat issues in the Southwest Florida region. A habitat suitability model was done to measure potential areas for recovery after decades of extinction danger. Habitat suitability models are essential in the planning and development of wildlife corridors. The findings of this study could be used for Florida panther conservation projects, and wildlife protecting plans to maintain areas suitable for wildlife proliferation.