Roads and Florida Panthers

The Florida panther is an endangered population of America's large cat also known as pumas, mountain lions, or cougars. As the panther population increased from a few dozen in the 1980s to over 200 adult cats today, collisions with vehicles have increased and are one of the leading causes of panther deaths. In 2021, 21 of the known panther deaths were attributed to vehicle strikes. Entire litters have been known to die in vehicle collisions.

Watch the award-winning 8-minute video about the new era of panthers and people.
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Photo: Peter Matthews/Big Cypress National Preserve

Over 230 panthers were killed on Florida roads
in the last ten years. 

Nighttime is Panther Time

Panther activity is greatest between dusk and dawn when visibility is lowest. Reduced nighttime speed zones exist where panthers are known to frequently cross roads. 

​60 Seconds for Panthers
At the posted 45 mph speed limit, driving through a three-mile-long panther zone would only take an extra minute compared to traveling at 60 m.p.h. Driving like this gives you more time to react. 

The average cost of a speeding ticket issued in a nighttime panther crossing is over $200. 

Good For Panthers - And You

Beyond costly fines, excessive speeds require a mandatory court appearance and time off work. ​By driving posted speeds you can avoid the disruption to your personal life as well as avoid personal injury to you and your family along with vehicle damage. Plus you'll also be helping ensure the survival of Florida's panthers. 

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If getting to Naples Zoo is inconvenient for you, download this form and mail it with a self-addressed stamped envelope your quarter to offset decal costs.

Thank you for making a better Florida
​for people and wildlife!

Driving Safety Tips

  • Watch for an animal’s eyeshine at night.

  • Use caution if road reflectors “disappear” as this means an animal is in front of them. Scan the road and shoulder ahead.
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  • If you see a panther cross the road ahead of you, slow down, there could be others. 

What should I do if I hit a panther?

If you hit a panther or if you see an injured or a road-killed panther, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission immediately at 1-888-404-3922. If you cannot remain at the site, give detailed location instructions. TIP: Program that number in your phone now under a name you'll recognize like "Florida Panther Collision."

Your information could help biologists rescue the animal. Do not approach if the panther is injured, for your safety as well as the animal’s. Watch the animal from a safe distance, preferably from inside your vehicle, until help arrives. 

Over 230 Panthers Lost to Vehicular Collisions Since 2012

In 2012, 18 Florida panthers were killed by vehicles. In 2013, 15 panthers were killed this way. In 2014, 24 panthers were lost in vehicle strikes. In 2015, it rose to 30 Florida panthers. In 2016, a new record was set when at least 34 panthers lost their lives in these deadly collisions. In 2017, 24 panthers lost their lives on the roads. In 2018, 26 panthers died on roads. In 2019, it was 23. In 2020, 19 panthers died on roads. And now 21 panthers died on the road in 2021. And these are only the ones we know of. Your help is critical in protecting Florida panthers in 2022.
Aspects of promoting this campaign are made possible through the Naples Zoo and Big Cypress National Preserve’s Zoo-Park Partnership for America’s Keystone Wildlife™.