The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported the death of a 6-year-old male Florida panther discovered September 29, 2026, on State Road 29 in Collier County south of Immokalee. The agency said the suspected cause of death was vehicle collision.
Vehicle collisions are the primary cause of death for Florida panthers, an endangered species. The FWC said it encourages motorists to slow down and observe posted speed limits, especially in panther zones across South Florida where the cats are known to cross.
The agency has established speed zones to protect both the endangered panthers and motorists from injury. Florida residents can support panther conservation efforts by purchasing a "Protect the Panther" license plate, according to the FWC. Fees from license plate sales are the primary funding source for the commission's research and management of Florida panthers.
Anyone who spots an injured, sick, or dead panther can report it to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).