The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is urging cattle ranchers to report suspected panther depredations through the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). This request is part of an effort to assist ranchers who experience losses due to panthers, making them eligible for compensation under the FWC’s Panther Depredation Compensation Pilot Program.
Eligibility for compensation requires that a calf depredation be fatal or ultimately fatal on a commercial cattle operation. The incident must be investigated by FWC staff and determined likely caused by a panther. Even in the absence of a carcass, cases with sufficient evidence indicating panther involvement qualify for payment.
Ranchers are advised to contact the hotline immediately upon suspecting a panther depredation, as timely reporting ensures evidence can be documented before it degrades. FWC staff will visit the site to assess and document evidence of panther involvement. If confirmed or deemed probable, compensation will be provided promptly.
The payment rates are based on the value of weaned steers and are linked to statewide auction prices at the time of loss, regardless of calf sex and weight. Since October 2023, payments have ranged from $1,358.50 to $1,901.90. The program underscores the importance of partnerships between cattle ranchers and the FWC in supporting wildlife habitat conservation and panther recovery efforts.
For more information on compensation programs and strategies to prevent conflicts with panthers, cattle ranchers, pet owners, and hobby farmers in Florida can visit MyFWC.com/PantherDepredations.