Florida biologists have captured the heaviest leopard ever as part of a research program for endangered animals.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the adult male leopard weighs 166 pounds. Florida Black Panthers usually weigh 60 to 160 pounds, with most adults recording within the middle range.
The animal was captured, and the biologist placed a tracking collar around its neck and released the cat back into the wild.
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Florida biologists have captured the heaviest leopard ever. (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)
Collars allow researchers to track movement patterns, survival, reproduction and habitat use. The data help inform “science-based management strategies that are critical to the recovery of this population,” the committee said.
Photos released by the committee show that before the sedatives take effect, the leopard was on the tree, and the animal was caught in the net.
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Adult male leopard weighs 166 pounds. (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)
When they were on a leopard, biologists conducted a comprehensive health assessment, including blood tests and collecting tissue samples for genetic analysis.
The committee said biologists have captured animals as part of a long-term research program that can monitor Panther’s movement, health and population dynamics. The program provides data on conservation efforts for the endangered Florida Black Panthers.
The animal was captured and the biologist placed a tracking collar around its neck and released it back into the wild. (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)
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The Florida leopard is one of only two native wildcat species in Florida, as well as the bobcat.
According to the Everglades Foundation, the Florida leopard is one of the rarest and most endangered mammals in the United States, with a population of only 200.
