Is there a captive breeding program?
The Florida panther captive-breeding program is headed by the White Oak Conservation Center, a privately run facility that also rehabilitates injured or sick panthers from the wild population. On December 12, 2000, they received permission from the state to attempt breeding among the following cats: 202, 204, 208, 209, 210. Breeding has occurred at White Oak between females 204 and 208, and both males. No conceptions have occurred to date (summer 2001). Originally taken from the wild as kittens in 1991 and 1992, they are now at the end of their breeding years at the ages of 10 to 11 years old. Fortunately, sperm banks contain their genetic lineage for future breeding uses. When they are past breeding age, they will have a home at one of several accredited Zoos where they can contribute to panther recovery through public education. In addition to genetics, the captive-breeding program still has a lot to offer including public outreach and research capabilities that arent possible in the
