In Florida, the heaviest cougar ever recorded was captured. These animals are now critically endangered. (photo)

Scientists across various countries are working to restore dying species in their regions. A crucial part of this effort involves population monitoring. Employees of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have captured and fitted a collar on the heaviest Florida panther ever recorded.

The adult male predator weighed 75 kg, exceeding the average weight for this species. Male Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi) typically weigh between 145 and 72 kg, while females range from 32 to 45 kg.

During routine population monitoring, the panther was sedated, underwent a veterinary examination, and samples were collected for genetic analysis before being released back into its natural habitat. This action is part of a long-term research program that tracks the movement, health status, and population dynamics of panthers.

The Florida Panther (Puma) – a species recovering from the brink of extinction

The Florida panther is a endangered subspecies of the cougar. Once, its range extended from Florida to Louisiana and Arkansas, but due to extensive hunting, the population has drastically decreased. According to the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), today this species can only be found in the southwestern part of Florida, where it inhabits swamps, dense forests, and palm groves.

Despite its status as the official mascot of Florida, only between 120 and 230 individuals of these rare predators remain in the wild. In the 1970s, hunting reduced their numbers to just 20 individuals.

Previously, "Telegraph" reported on rare animals in Ukraine. Among the felines, the European lynx is under threat. Many bird species are also declining, including the heart-faced owl.