Manuel Pruitt+FollowFlorida panther mom and kittens spotted in rare footageA Florida panther mother and her two kittens were recently caught on camera in the wild, a sight almost never seen. With only about 200 adult panthers left, every new kitten is a big deal for the species—and for the health of Florida’s wetlands. These big cats help keep the ecosystem balanced, which in turn protects clean water and reduces flooding for local communities. The footage, captured by a volunteer photographer in the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed, is a reminder of how important it is to protect these habitats. How do you feel about Florida’s efforts to save its wildlife? #Entertainment #Painting #FloridaPanther59210Share
megangibson+FollowHow Texas pumas saved Florida’s wild catsFlorida panthers were nearly wiped out by inbreeding and habitat loss, but a bold move in the 1990s changed everything: scientists brought in eight female pumas from Texas. Now, the panther population has climbed to about 200, and those telltale signs of inbreeding—like kinked tails—are much rarer. The best part? Florida panthers haven’t lost what makes them unique. Still, experts warn this genetic rescue might only be a temporary fix. If the population stays small, inbreeding could creep back. Should we consider another round of genetic help, or focus on expanding their habitat? #Science #FloridaPanther #WildlifeRescue370Share