FP-147 aka Beach Boy


FP-147 aka K-184 is the son of FP129. He was one of three kittens, born a few miles from the Oasis Visitor Center in Big Cypress National Preserve in late March of 2005.

He was radio-collared at 11 months of age on March 3, 2006. He was in good condition and weighed 59 lbs. After his mother 
died on March 22, 2006 as a result of a fight with another panther; FP147 dispersed west through Big Cypress, Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, Picayune Strand State Forest, and out to Keewaydin Island. 

FP-147s walk to the beach

The move to the barrier island earned him the nickname of “Beach Boy.”

FP-147s home range

Leaving the area of their birth is the normal pattern for young male panthers. The dominate male, likely his father will not tolerate another male panther living in his territory.  Young males are forced to move out until they are strong enough to hold a territory of their own.

© Ralph Arwood 2019