Biologists Tag 166-Pound FL Panther, Largest Ever Recorded: FWC

FLORIDA — Biologists recently captured and collared the heaviest Florida panther ever recorded, an adult male weighing 166 pounds, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute wrote in a Facebook post.

The panther was caught as part of a long-term research program that monitors panther movements, health and population dynamics throughout the state.

Florida panthers are the larger of two native cat species in the state, the other being bobcats, according to the FWC website.

Panthers have been documented throughout much of the peninsula and as far north as Georgia. Most are found south of Lake Okeechobee.

Panthers are listed as an Endangered Species under the Endangered Species Act and it is illegal to harm or harass them in any way, FWC said.

There are between 120 and 230 adult panthers in the population.

When collaring a panther, biologists give them a comprehensive health assessment, including blood tests and collecting tissue samples for genetic analysis, FWC said.

The GPS collars put on panthers before they’re released allow researchers to travel their movement patterns, survival, reproduction and habitat use.

Residents can support the agency’s panther research and management by purchasing a Protect the Panther license plate online here.