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A trail camera has captured a Florida panther repeatedly using a wildlife crossing and teaching her young kittens to do the same.
Videos by Outdoors with Bear Grylls
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) captured the video of a panther, which is nicknamed “Broketail” due to its crooked tail. The female panther has used the highway underpass her whole life. Officials say she learned to do so from her mother and is now passing the preferred route choice on to her kittens.
In the video, you can see Broketail and her offspring. USFWS says the passing cars likely overstimulated the kittens due to the loud sounds and smells, and that’s why they seem so startled.
Florida is one of many states that have increased efforts to build wildlife crossings. The structures not only protect wildlife from cars but also reduce car crashes. Recently, the Biden Administration announced grants to build additional wildlife crossings around the country.
USFWS says Broketail will turn 12 in March of the new year. The species generally lives between eight and 14 years, but wildlife officials believe these safe crossings have helped keep her safe. The federal government lists Florida panthers as endangered. Broketail, who has had multiple litters, has played a vital part in the recovery of the species.
Florida panthers are a subspecies of mountain lions that can be found throughout most of the U.S.’s western states. Florida is the only East Coast state with a sustained panther population.
I love the wildlife crossings. It makes me happy to see it it helping to keep precious wildlife safe. Thank you.