A small contingent of V W Neighbors attended a seminar at Rookery Bay on Wednesday, September 3, 2008. The room was filled with folks wanting to learn about our "cute" four legged neighbors.
The cats' name was FL 157 (I think). He is a member of the Puma family, and calls home the land just beyond the boundaries of Verona Walk.
Dr. Dave Onorato, a Research Scientist, advised those in attendance, that a few Panthers live in Collier County. One Cat, in particular, has been tracked from I-75 West to Seminole State Park, and up to Keywaydin Island (The Cat has a female acquaintance in that area). Panther kittens have been located in the larger SW Florida area suggesting that they are reproducing. None the less they are still considered an endangered species.
A large map was displayed showing the "electronic fixes" of "Our Panther." Those "fixes"covered the area outside our development. These animals rarely go into developed property, but they do roam in the heavily wooded locations.
While our homes are not an attraction for Panthers, it should be noted that building, in general, displaces land that these cats use. It is possible that one might see one of these animals near the perimeter of our community. If not on the ground, they might be in a tree above.
It was a good experience to learn about the animals, and "Our Panther" in particular. The facility at Rookery Bay is also well worth a visit. One can develop an appreciation for the environment that we live in and all of the species in the preserved areas around us.
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