A rare Florida panther was found dead Tuesday morning along a heavily traveled stretch of State Road 82 in Collier County after what wildlife officials say was likely a vehicle strike.
The female cat, identified by researchers as UCFP500, was estimated to be between five and six years old. Her body was found roughly one-third of a mile west of Church Road, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which confirmed the discovery. Early assessments indicate she probably died after being hit by a car, Tampa Free Press reports.
Biologists say they collect panther remains to monitor the health and movement of the endangered population and to guide ongoing conservation work, Tampa Free Press notes.
Biologists Will Examine The Remains
State biologists plan to take the carcass for a full necropsy to confirm the exact cause of death and to gather data used in long-term panther management…