TAMPA – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission coordinated emergency response last July for a young male panther struck by a vehicle in Southwest Florida.
The response included surgery at BluePearl Specialty + Emergency Pet Hospital in Fort Myers, where veterinarians repaired fractures to his radius and ulna using orthopedic plates. Due to the specialized medical needs of caring for an injured exotic animal, ZooTampa at Lowry Park was selected to provide rehabilitation care.
ZooTampa’s team created a controlled environment that minimized movement, reduced human interaction and supported recovery without habituation. Staff monitored the panther by camera and conducted periodic sedated exams during the eight-week recovery.
After his initial recovery period, wildlife officials assessed the panther to determine if he could eventually be returned to the wild. Caretakers observed an ongoing limp, and further examination revealed an additional fracture to his humerus. The panther received a full-body CT scan and additional pro bono surgery from Dr. Brett Darrow of ECoVets Veterinary Specialists, who completed three procedures.
The panther’s prolonged course of treatment and concerns about habituation led wildlife experts and partners to make the difficult decision to deem the panther non-releasable. The young male panther has been named Loper.
“Rehabilitating Florida panthers is challenging, so we are especially grateful for the partnerships that made this successful outcome possible,” said Dr. Peter Sebastian, panther veterinarian for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “We also thank Floridians who support our work through the purchase of ‘Protect the Panther’ license plates, which help fund panther research, management and rehabilitation.”
While he cannot return to the wild, he will help visitors understand threats facing Florida panthers and the need to protect their habitat.
With only an estimated 120 to 230 Florida panthers remaining in the wild, each is crucial to the species’ survival. In 2024, more than 30 panthers died, mostly from vehicle collisions.
“This young panther’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved when agencies, veterinary and animal care specialists come together for Florida wildlife,” said Meredith Persky, senior vice president and chief conservation and animal health officer at ZooTampa. “Although we hoped he would return to his native habitat, Loper’s story will inspire greater awareness and impactful action to protect this iconic species.”
