Florida biologists capture heaviest panther ever recorded in the Sunshine State

Florida biologists captured the heaviest Panther ever recorded in the state as part of a program to study endangered animals.

The adult male panther weighed 166 pounds, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee. The Florida Panthers typically weigh between 60 and 160 pounds, with most adults recorded in the mid-range.

The animal was captured, and biologists placed a chasing collar around their neck before bringing the cat back into the wild.

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Collars allow researchers to track movement patterns, survival, reproduction and habitat use. The data will help “a science-based management strategy essential to this population recovery,” the committee said.

Photos released by the committee show that the tranquilizer painted a panther on a tree before it went into effect. At that point the animal was caught up in the net.

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The adult male Panther weighed 166 pounds. (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee)

When they worked with the Panther, biologists conducted comprehensive health assessments, including blood tests and collection of tissue samples for genetic analysis.

Biologists captured the animals as part of a long-term research programme that monitors Panther's movement, health and population dynamics, the committee said. The program provides data for conservation efforts on endangered Florida Panthers.

The animals were captured, and biologists placed a chasing collar around their neck before returning them to the wild. (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee)

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The Florida Panther is one of two native wildcat species in Florida and is a bobcat.

According to the Everglades Foundation, the Florida Panther is one of the rarest and endangered mammals in the United States, with a population of about 200.