06/05/2026
Meet one of Florida’s most elusive residents—the Florida panther! 🐆✨ Named the state animal in 1982, this rare big cat is a powerful symbol of conservation in the Sunshine State.
Once roaming across the Southeast, their numbers dropped due to habitat loss and hunting. Today, they’re found mainly in South Florida and remain critically endangered, though recovery efforts are making a difference.
Fun fact: Florida panthers are a subspecies of the mountain lion and the only breeding population of cougars east of the Mississippi River!
These facts come from our 2026 Florida Calendar, celebrating the state’s unique symbols.
