The Florida Panther is a subspecies of the cougar, native to the forests and swamps of southern Florida. It is characterized by its tawny coat, long tail, and distinctive facial markings. Adult panthers typically weigh between 80 to 160 pounds and can reach lengths of up to 7 feet, including their tail. They are solitary animals, primarily active at dawn and dusk. This endangered species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as a top predator, helping to maintain the balance of prey populations. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the Florida Panther and its habitat, as fewer than 200 individuals remain in the wild.