Save the Florida Panther Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Florida

In 1816, Lorenz Oken classified all spotted large cats within the Panthera genus. Reginald Pocock subclassified the genus in 1916 and introduced lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars based on their distinguishing characteristics.

Protect Florida Panther Day is observed annually on the third Saturday of March, which will occur on March 18 this year. This article provides information about the holiday and its proper observance. Did you know that the Panthera classification was established 106 years ago? The Day is celebrated annually as a means of preventing the extinction of panthers and preserving their natural habitat. This is observed especially in Florida, where the panther is the state animal. People observe this day by joining forces with volunteers and disseminating awareness about panther conservation.

The background of Save the Florida Panther Day

The greatest cause of panther extinction is the destruction of their natural habitat. With a growing population and ever-expanding industries eradicating forests, many panthers were left homeless. Hunting and poaching are also significant hazards to the panther population. In 2016, an estimated 35 panthers were slain, according to estimates. Approximately fifteen panthers were previously slain on the highway near Alligator Alley. One action performed by the Florida Department of Transportation (F.D.O.T.) will have a significant impact on the lives and well-being of panthers. The F.D.O.T. will enclose the approximately nine-mile stretch from the Naples tollbooth to the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. In 2015, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (F.W.C.) documented the discovery of a female panther near the Caloosahatchee River, as well as the increase of the panther population from 180 to 230. This was extremely encouraging news; it demonstrated that panther conservation efforts were bearing fruit.

On Save the Florida Panther Day, the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge encourages citizens to help save panthers. They organize safaris, camps, and guided excursions. People can also assist the Panther Citizens Assistance Taskforce (P.C.A.T.) volunteers and contribute to the ongoing campaign. Non-Florida residents can also be a part of this effort by raising awareness about the significance of preserving panthers and their habitat.

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