An endangered Florida panther has moved from a hospital room to a customized panther habitat at ZooTampa at Lowry Park after a year-long recovery from a life-threatening injury and amputation.
The panther, named Walter, was found with his left foot caught in a snare in Highlands County.
Walter was brought to the zoo by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials.
Unable to save the cat’s front paw, the veterinarians treated the injury and provided oversight to help Walter learn to walk again.
Walter can’t survive in the wild with three paws, so he will have a permanent home at ZooTampa.
His habitat will be modified so the big cat can enjoy being active without risking re-injury. He will remain in his indoor habitat until he is comfortable with his new surroundings.
“We are proud to be a source for panther rehabilitation and provide these cats the critical and specialized care they need in order to thrive,” said Ray Ball, D.V.M., Vice President of Medical Sciences and Senior Veterinarian at ZooTampa.
“Florida panthers are an integral species in our native ecosystem and Walter is a great ambassador for his species. We are thrilled with his progress and recovery.”
