Protect Florida Panthers from Extinction

By Ona Coughlan

Target: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Goal: Re-introduce Florida panthers to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to prevent the animals from going extinct

Florida’s wild panthers are disappearing. In the 19th century, thousands of the animals were documented roaming the entire U.S. southeast. Their habitat ranged from Arkansas to South Caroline down to the tip of Florida. Now, it is estimated that only 100 to 160 still survive in the wild, and these remaining animals can only be found in the southernmost part of Florida, around the Big Cyprus National Preserve.

Sadly, Florida offers few protections for these creatures. What’s left of the panthers’ habitat is slowing disappearing as housing developments and paved roads continue to cut into state parks and public land. In the past year, 26 panthers were killed by vehicle collisions and starvation, both a result of human encroachment. Scientists estimate that if development in Florida continues at this high rate, even more panthers will perish in the upcoming years. In no time at all, these beautiful animals could be extinct.

However, panthers can be saved from disappearing forever. If they are re-introduced to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, a preserve located on the Florida-Georgia border, they will have a change at survival. Okefenokee is a quiet, protected area with no sprawling housing developments or high-speed roads. The panthers will be able to live and hunt in peace, and their overall numbers will likely increase dramatically, saving the species from complete extinction. Tell the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to re-introduce the panthers to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and save these beautiful animals.

PETITION LETTER

Dear U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,

Florida’s wild panthers are disappearing. In the 19th century, thousands of the animals were documented roaming the entire U.S. southeast. Now, it is estimated that only 100 to 160 still survive in the wild. What’s left of their habitat in Florida is slowing disappearing, as housing developments and paved roads continue to spring up all over the state. In the past year, 26 panthers were killed by hunters, cars, and starvation. Scientists estimate that even more will perish next year. At this rate, these beautiful animals will soon be extinct.

But there is something the Fish and Wildlife Service can do for these panthers. If they are re-introduced to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, they will have a change at survival. Okefenokee is a quiet, protected area with no housing developments, hunters, or cars. The panthers will be able to live and hunt in peace, and their overall numbers will likely increase dramatically.

Please re-introduce these amazing creatures to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. Their survival as a species depends on it. Thank you.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Art G. via WikiCommons