by Taetske | 2:51 pm
(Last Updated On: August 6, 2021)

 

The Florida panther is losing its habitat!

 

Why I love nature

I am a “nature” person and I was blessed to spend my childhood in a very beautiful area in Holland. There were lovely big forests in the area where my parents and I would go mushroom hunting, all the while observing all the exciting things you can discover in nature.

My Father constructed a super treehouse for me and I wondered at all I saw. I would often go on an expedition with our cat and dog in the garden. These were lovely times. Especially because my Father was interested in everything related to nature as well.

My Mother preferred museums and churches so the holidays would always be a combination of the hobbies both of my parents had and I would love it.

I have always loved animals, but my biggest love has been for cats. All the cat family, from the smallest to big. They have fascinated me with their grace, beauty, elegance, and sometimes their funny antics. Since 1981, I live on my old organic farm and have had the space to give cats a happy home.

 

Black Panther, sorry, black cat

Black Panther, sorry black cat image Gabriele M. Reinhardt

 

My concern about the environment

I am also concerned about what is happening in our world and when I come across something which catches my attention, I will probably write a post about it. Having 2 websites since January 2017, my worldview has changed considerably.

I have become aware that we, humans, do not take good care of our environment. That we, with our actions (or inaction), have destroyed many species of fauna and flora.

They are forever lost, and we cannot undo what we have done. That means that future generations will only know these examples of nature from books, films, and the internet. It could very well be that they will accuse us of having been careless, cruel, and destructive of something all humans have a right to enjoy.

 

My sources of information

I subscribe to quite a few newsletters, be it from many doctors, spiritually related organizations, and protective organizations that send me news on environmental issues. I am happy to receive them as it inspires me to write a post.

One of these newsletters came my way recently and caught my attention. Sierra Club is warning that the Florida panther is in danger. Definitely, something to write about and I hope it will catch your attention. I live in the south of Spain but you, my reader, might live in the U.S.

 

Puma

Puma image Corinna Stoeffl

 

The beautiful panther and its history

When I think of the panther, I envision the beautiful black panther. Most black panthers are either a black leopard or a black jaguar, but the term panther includes other species besides the leopard or jaguar. The Florida panther is the only exception, and it is actually a subspecies of Cougar.

All these beautiful creatures belong to the Big Cat family. You will find them in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

It seems that the word panther has not being used much by the scientific community since the 1960s. Most of the big cats are listed under the genus as panthers, and there are 12 living species of panthers as of 2015. Cougars have different names like Puma and Mountain Lion. It does not list them as panthers. This makes it all a bit confusing.

 

The original edition of 1894

You probably remember the lovely story written by Rudyard Kipling, The Jungle Book. Bagheera, the black panther plays an important part in this story.

 

 

The Florida panther is in danger

There are only 120 Florida panthers living in the U.S. It is one of the most endangered animals in the United States. Why is the panther in danger? There are plans for a 45.000-acre mega housing development that threatens to take their habitat away.

It is always us, humans, wanting to expand and, with no respect or concern for other species, grabbing their habitat.

I also read that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would soon allow for the destruction of 20.000 acres of the Panther’s homeland. When you think this is the only place worldwide where this panther can breed and have its babies, one wonders why, again men, have to destroy instead of protecting.

Scientists warn that if we approve this mega-building plan, it would mean the extinction of Florida’s official state animal. Do you want that to happen?

This short video shows you the actual situation of the Florida Panther. It has close-up shots that are impressive.

 

 

In Spain, we have the Iberian Lynx, which is also on the endangered species list. These past years it has been made possible to increase the number of special breeding programs and when old enough the animals were set free with a GPS collar.

You might argue that this same type of program is used to save the Florida panther. It only will be effective if we can maintain its habitat and even increase it. But this will not happen until we all make the commitment to protect their home and hunting grounds.

 

Lynx drinking water

Lynx drinking water image Ernie

 

Cars are panthers worse enemy

If the large housing development goes forward, it will mean a vast increase in traffic. From the estimated 174.000 new residents, one can add some 180.000 more vehicles on the road. Currently, car collisions are the number one reason for panther deaths and you can imagine, with such a growth in traffic, Florida panther deaths will only increase.

There are associations like the Florida Panther Protection Program which try to protect this beautiful animal from extinction. The question is, which side will win?

Do you want to know about cats, all the cats that exist? Do not miss this YouTube video. It is informative for sure.

 

 

This beautiful big cat

Let us have a closer look at this magnificent animal. It is a gorgeous big cat that can weigh up to 160 lbs (73 kg), which is what I weigh (that means I have to lose a couple of kgs). The Florida panther lives mainly in the south in pinelands, the hardwood hammocks, and swamp forests.

In the 1970s there were only an estimated 20 animals left but luckily its numbers rose to approx. 230 by 2017. In 1983 they chose it as Florida’s state animal.

When the cubs are born, they are spotted but growing up, these spots will fade away. These animals cannot roar but have the ability to make multiple sounds like whistles, chirps, growls, hisses, and purrs.

Just like my little black panther, Jasmin, who sits on the windowsill of my workroom. After waiting to be let in for breakfast, she tells me long stories about her hunting spree during the night.

 

Alligator

Alligator image Jeff Leonhardt

 

No more legal hunting

This panther has been protected from legal hunting since 1958, and in 1967 it was listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 1973, they put the panther on the state’s endangered species list. Now, someone wants to take its habitat away. These animals are large carnivores and they have a varied diet.

Hares, mice, and waterfowl are on the menu. They might also eat storks, some white-tailed deer, and even American alligators. That surprised me a lot. What a brave cat. What will happen when you take away their hunting grounds? I found out it also has some naughty hunting habits as it can present a danger to cattle, horses, and even dogs and cats.

Dogs and cats? Oh no, that is awful, you might say. Let’s face it, if we steal its habitat and leave too few hunting grounds then, of course, it will find different food sources which might include our dear dog or cat. It is our fault, so we should not blame the panther who only hunts to be able to survive and feed its offspring.

When we interfere with nature, it has unforeseen consequences. A good example is Yellowstone Park. When the wolf was banned, it caused a complete imbalance in the ecology of the region, affecting the entire ecosystem. Luckily, in this case, the wolf has been introduced again, and it restored the balance.

 

Swamp

Swamp image Miroslav Sarkozy

 

Conclusion

I sincerely hope that this mega-building project will not happen. If you are concerned about the disappearance of the Florida panther, please speak up, go and protest to the local authorities.

We do not have a right to destroy all fauna and flora. We have an obligation to take care of our environment. Future generations also want to enjoy living on this beautiful planet. Please help so this will be possible.

I have made a special page for you. It holds a collection of things you could be interested in. Before you leave, have a look at Recommendations.

 

Source: Wikipedia and Sierra Club.org

Photo Source: Pixabay

 

Humans are guilty of the extinction of many more species. It is very sad, but one should be informed about what is happening in our world. You might care to read the following post.

Human Caused Extinction

Comments

MissusB

Like you, I also feel bad everytime I hear news about endangered species. It feels like the world is gradually taking away all its blessings and we can’t blame anyone but ourselves. We, humans being the most intelligent of all creatures are given the task to pasteur over the lands, take care of other beings but what most people do is the opposite.

Can’t these problems be solved by actually making a plan to save endangered species? I believe that any part of the ecosystem should be given a priority. I understand that there are other problems in the society but the continuance of life is more important. The Government assigned people for each sector, for each problem and issue, so why steal their habitat if they know it’s going to give more harm? 

I admire you for this eye opening article. Even though I’m on a different side of the world, i sincerely hope that people will stand up against this project. My prayers are with you. 

Jun 17.2019 | 03:41 pm

    Taetske

    Good Morning Maureen,

    It is sad indeed that all these happening, animal species disappearing from our planet is mainly our fault. The human race is very destructive and greedy and I wonder what future generations will say looking back in history.

    The plan to build new houses is probably necessary and it keeps the industry booming. To take away part of the habitat of an endangered species like in this case the Florida panther is thoughtless and stupid. I am sure there are other ways to solve this problem but often the easiest way is chosen. Having 2 websites and writing posts have opened my eyes to a lot of things I was not aware of. My world view has changed considerably.

    Regards, Taetske

    Jun 18.2019 | 09:49 am

Xaric

Hey Taetske, 

I am a cat person as well. There’s just something about cats right? Maybe it’s that they are independent and don’t need anyone to survive.

Back to your article and your concerns, I truly believe that the only way for nature to restore itself is for human beings to disappear for a couple of thousands of years.

Your article actually reminds me of a very interesting animated video I had watched a few days back. It’s called “MAN” by Steve Cutts and you can find it on YouTube.

My best to you,

Xaric

Jun 17.2019 | 03:47 pm

    Taetske

    Good Morning Xaric,

    Mother Earth has her ways of showing her displeasure at our senseless and destructive actions. The video MAN needs no extra explanation. I have used it for one of my posts. I was very happy when he became a doormat.

    There really would be no problem if we disappear. Nature will take over, slowly but surely and in quite a short time future visitors will only find the remnants of our buildings. 

    Thank you for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?

    Regards, Taetske

    Jun 18.2019 | 09:56 am

Paula

I love your topic. It’s interesting you chose an endangered species in the US since you are in Spain. I think a lot of people, especially me, didn’t know about the Florida panther. The topic is great but could almost be its own website. You could have one website on natural products and one to help endangered species. Hope this helps. Great job. Keep going!

Jun 17.2019 | 04:01 pm

    Taetske

    Good Morning Paula,

    Thank you for your visit and leaving a comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?

    I started on my, having a website, adventure 2 and a half year ago. I immediately got a second one, not something I recommend but at that time I had no clue, as I realized all my hobbies/interest would not fit. To be honest all of it does not fit either on 2 sites. That is the reason I have categories. I do try to keep all things related to Mother Earth on her site and on Healthyantiagingalternatives more health and food things. It sometimes happens both sites overlap. Oh well, you see I write about things which catch my attention and I just like to get the news out there. 

    Regards, Taetske

    Jun 18.2019 | 10:05 am

Matthew

This is very interesting news for me as I love all animals and always follow all the nature programs on TV but I never knew that the black panther was either a black leopard or a black jaguar! That really is an eyeopener for me.

It’s awful to hear that they are planning to build this huge housing estate in Florida. The area where the Florida
panther lives so why isn’t there a petition up to stop this or even rehome those beautiful creatures?

Jun 17.2019 | 04:13 pm

    Taetske

    Good Morning Matthew,

    I know it is a bit confusing when the Florida panther actually is a Cougar but is called a panther. Then the black panthers are leopards or jaguars and the name black panther is not used anymore. Still, they all belong to the big beautiful cat family. 

    Time will tell who wins this battle. Often, as so much money is involved human interest will win. The bill with nasty consequences will be presented sooner or later.

    Thank you for your comment. I hope you have downloaded your free PDF?

    Regards, Taetske

    Jun 18.2019 | 10:15 am

Georgio

Greetings Taetske!
First of all, thank you so much for sharing this important topic with all of us, “The Florida Panther is in danger!”
Day after day, humans build new houses, new roads, and destroy more forest and animal habitats. And since the arrival of men to earth, animal species have only decreased with time!  And I believe that humans should take care and be responsible for their actions, and start protecting all animals because once they are extinct, they can never come back!
And Florida Panthers are decreasing in numbers every day, and we should all help these animals instead of hurting them!
I hope we can make things better as soon as possible!
Thank you again for this amazing article!
Keep up the amazing work!

Georgio

Jun 17.2019 | 04:18 pm

    Taetske

    Good Morning Georgio,

    Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?

    Whenever I come across stories like this I feel sad. Having 2 websites since 2 and a half year has been an eyeopener on what happens in our world. I have changed my world view quite a bit.

    When you look back in history it becomes so clear that we do not learn and continuously repeat the same mistakes, perhaps I should use the word crimes. No respect for our environment which is our habitat. No respect for creation as a whole. The human race has still a long way to go.

    Regards, Taetske

    Jun 18.2019 | 10:23 am

Sylvia Mann

Hi, Taetske,
I am very thankful for your detailed article on the endangered species and, especially, the Florida panther, which of now I had no idea that it exists.
I am, like you, a total cat lover, don’t get me wrong I love many animals, but cats are my favorites.
From the big cats I personally felt an attraction, since I was a child, toward the Tiger.
However, I too, read a lot about the loss of animal habitat due to human development as well ignorance and climate change.
Horst and I keep our “little” paradise as natural as we can, therefore we had quite the wildlife to experience over the years like possums, wild turkeys, rabbits, coyote and even a black bear.
Still, I have discovered though the diminishing of songbirds in our area for the last 3 years, which really concerns me deeply. At least, we have quite some wild bees humming around and I am not afraid of it to sit near them. The other day a bee was sitting on one of my fingers for some time and I “communicated” with it, but this is for another time to be revealed.
Being active and also protest against this planned development in Florida is important. Is there already a petition going on? I have to research for it.
Thanks, Taetske as always I do enjoy your articles.

Namaste
Sylvia

Jun 18.2019 | 08:32 pm

    Taetske

    Good afternoon Sylvia,

    Thank you for your visit. It is always a pleasure to see you on my website.

    How exciting to have a black bear in the garden. Here, in the south of Spain it does not get that exciting as I can only boast about a fox, many years ago, and snakes, turtles, and hedgehogs. As my farm is organic and my neighbor on 3 sides with his avocados is also organic I have seen an increase in birds, insects, butterflies, and bees.

    I do hope the people in Florida wake up on time. Just imagine they would erase their own State animal, what a scandal that would be.

    I would feel very ashamed if future generations accuse us of this destruction. We are not the owners of the environment with all its life included. We are the keepers and protectors of this beautiful planet.

    Regards, Taetske

    Jun 19.2019 | 03:12 pm

Danijel

Hello Taetske, I must say that this article is very helpful and informative. Honestly, I did not know about Florida panther been in danger, it is really sad to read that as I am a big lover of animals and it is hard to see animal extinction. People became so soulless, many don’t even care about it and are not talking about helping. I hope this article will get to the people’s heart and I hope that we can prevent this disaster.

Dec 05.2019 | 07:22 pm

    Taetske

    Good afternoon Danijel,

    It is very sad to observe what is happening in the world. So many things have disappeared without even knowing about its existence. Like in the Amazon, only 10 % has been discovered and cataloged be it fauna or flora. 

    We definitely are not going in the right direction.

    Nice to see you again and thank you for your comment.

    Regards, Taetske

    Dec 06.2019 | 03:43 pm

Rose

Thanks for this post on the Florida panther losing their habitats, the big black cats are very dangerous and more so for anyone driving the car around them which could make it worse.

I think if they are losing their habitat is very dangerous and this will cause great havoc in the city to everyone. If they don’t have a place to live they will surely come out to find their space. I think people should find something done on this. 

Dec 05.2019 | 07:25 pm

    Taetske

    Good afternoon Rose,

    The Florida panther is not the same as the black panther but they belong to the cat family. The Florida panther has the color of coffee with milk so actually light-colored.

    When a wild animal is forced into a small area it has to come out of there to find food. Only we are to blame for this.

    I really hope this big development will not be build as it could otherwise mean the extinction of this beautiful animal.

    Thank you for your comment. I hope you have downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.

    Regards, Taetske 

    Dec 06.2019 | 03:36 pm

Ivan

I recently watched a documentary series about seven big cats including the Panther. The author was a man who’s spent most of his adult life filming big cats and recording their population all over the world. I was fascinated to see how widespread all of them were just a few hundred years ago. Unfortunately, people have hunted them down and chased them away from their natural habitats. 

I like what you’re doing with your site. My opinion is the same as yours. We should save and protect big cats and stop them from extinction. 

Dec 05.2019 | 07:25 pm

    Taetske

    Good afternoon Ivan,

    Thank you for leaving a comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.

    I started with my 2 websites 3 years ago and actually had no idea what that implied. One site is health-related and this one here is more about environmental issues. These sites often overlap and that is why I call them sister sites.

    When you investigate for your post you will come across a lot of things you had no idea about before. It has really opened my eyes. I can imagine that the documentary you watched must have been exciting as well as beautiful.

    Regards, Taetske

    Dec 06.2019 | 03:27 pm

Pamela Arsena

I have always found large cats alluring and when I lived in Jacksonville I learned a great deal about the Florida panther.  It saddens me they are on the endangered list.  It seems as a society we are becoming more consumers and less of a caretaker to our planet which has given us so much.  With that being said I am happy to see you bringing awareness to this majestic endangered cat. 

Dec 05.2019 | 07:27 pm

    Taetske

    Good afternoon Pamela,

    It is indeed very sad that we humans do not respect life. Our planet is filled with beautiful things and we destroy it. 

    Having websites I have become more aware of what is happening in our world and it really worries me.

    Thank you for your visit and for leaving a comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget

    Regards, Taetske

    Dec 06.2019 | 03:21 pm

Jannette

I like cats and am from Florida. Yes, the Florida panther is on danger list and although no proven research has been provided rather hunters are killing these animals, however, the constant development of housing and industrial buildings is making it impossible for the Florida panther to remain in their natural habitat.

Another possible contributor is the Alligators and massive snakes that overpopulate Florida, especially in the everglades. Have you found any evidence of the Florida panther migrating to joining states like Georgia and South Alabama? 

Dec 05.2019 | 07:30 pm

    Taetske

    Good afternoon Jannette,

    Thank you for your comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.

    It seems that in past times the Florida panther had a lot more living space than nowadays. This animal used to live from Arkansas and Louisiana, eastward across Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina and Tennessee.

    We should not forget it is one of the most endangered large animals worldwide.

    It saddens me that we are so destructive and do not respect creation.

    Regards, Taetske

    Dec 06.2019 | 03:17 pm

Nina

It’s wonderful to take your time and also write such awareness-raising articles.
Although I try my best to do everything I can for the good of our planet, I am aware of the collective responsibility we have as a human race living on Earth and the damage we cause. We really depend on nature and its diversity, but most of the world’s population today would not know how to survive in nature.
I am fortunate to live in a small European country that has more than 50% of the territory with forests, we have diverse vegetation and fauna, and a fairly healthy climate. There is a forest in my immediate vicinity and I live in contact with nature all the time. I am truly blessed.
And precisely because I am aware of how important the natural environment is for our survival, this is as tragic news for me as news of endangered species. Thanks again for spreading awareness!
I wish you all the best
Nina

Feb 26.2021 | 06:00 pm

    Taetske

    Good Morning Nina,

    I agree with you, having close contact with nature is a blessing. Our modern world can be so stressful, but a walk through the forest will reload your batteries. Sitting in silence under an old tree will take your troubles away.

    Especially during the past year, I have appreciated to have property where I could stretch my legs. Our village was 3 times on total lock down so to be able to walk around and work in the garden eased the stress.

    It is very sad to see that humans can be so destructive. Not thinking about endangered species and neither about future generations. 

    Thank you for your visit and for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.

    Regards, Taetske

    Feb 27.2021 | 07:30 am

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