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Earlier this year, the female kitten was discovered in the wild and closely monitored by biologists with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) as part of ongoing panther conservation efforts. At approximately eight weeks old, wildlife experts determined the kitten had been abandoned by her mother and was unable to survive on her own. FWC biologists continued to monitor her and waited as long as possible in hopes her mother would return, but when it became clear she would not, the kitten was safely rescued on March 9 and transported to the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, where a specialized veterinary and animal care team immediately stepped in to provide critical care.
“This story is a reminder of how challenging life can be for Florida panthers, particularly for young kittens that lose the protection of their mothers,” said Dr. Peter Sebastian, veterinarian with the FWC. “We’re grateful she received the specialized care she needed at the Naples Zoo, and we’re pleased that her journey at the Central Florida Zoo will help raise awareness about Florida panthers and the importance of conserving their habitat.”
At the time of her rescue, the kitten weighed less than three pounds and was in fragile condition, including a high parasite load and significant signs of malnourishment. Naples Zoo veterinary and animal care teams immediately launched an intensive rehabilitation program focused on nutrition, medical treatment and continuous monitoring.
Over the following months, she made remarkable progress. Today, she weighs more than 36 pounds and continues to show strong development and resilience.
“Her recovery is a testament to the dedication of our veterinary and animal care teams,” said Dr. Carson Rehn, veterinarian associate at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. “We’re proud to have played a role in giving her a second chance and are thrilled she will continue her journey at Central Florida Zoo, where she can inspire others to protect Florida panthers.”
Known as Peppercorn, the young panther was named by the team at Naples Zoo for her spicy but small nature. Her journey from a vulnerable eight-week-old kitten to a thriving young panther highlights the impact of specialized wildlife care and collaboration among conservation organizations.
“The Central Florida Zoo is honored to provide her a safe, permanent home where she will not only thrive under expert care, but also help inspire guests to understand why protecting Florida's native wildlife and wild spaces is so important,” said Richard Glover, CEO. “We are also thankful to the FWC and the dedicated team at Naples Zoo for the extraordinary care they provided. Her journey is a powerful reminder of both the vulnerability and resilience of Florida panthers.”
Peppercorn’s arrival at the Zoo marks the next step in a remarkable journey that began with a vulnerable kitten in need of intervention and has led to a thriving young panther with an important story to share.
“Every milestone she's reached is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the wildlife professionals who refused to give up on her,” said Erin Bussom, General Curator. “She will play an important role in helping guests connect with Florida's native wildlife. Her story reminds us why protecting Florida panthers and the habitats they depend on is so important, and we hope she inspires future generations to become advocates for conservation, especially within our own backyard.”
Follow the Central Florida Zoo's social media channels for updates on when Peppercorn will make her habitat debut.
Florida panthers are among the most endangered mammals in the United States, with only an estimated 120-230 adult panthers remaining.
To view or download photos and videos, click here.
For more information about the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens and to purchase tickets, visit www.centralfloridazoo.org.
About the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to more than 350 animals in Sanford, Florida. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, it is a leader in conservation, creating connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife. The Zoo is an affordable, family-friendly experience supported by private donations and gate admission.
The Zoo is one of a small number of privately operated, non-profit zoos in the country accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and serves as a valuable community resource that enhances the quality of life in Central Florida. By bringing guests face-to-face with animals they may never encounter in the wild, the Zoo is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of wildlife worldwide. More information is available at www.centralfloridazoo.org.
About FWC
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of the people. Florida residents can support panther conservation efforts by purchasing a "Protect the Panther" license plate. If you see an injured, sick or dead panther, please contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) so that trained experts can respond.
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