News Release

National Park Service seeks tips from the public to aid theft investigation in Big Cypress National Preserve

Trail camera photo of a Florida panther with suspected neurological disorder.

NPS photo.

News Release Date: April 2, 2021

Contact: A. Vela / Big Cypress National Preserve

Law Enforcement Rangers of Big Cypress National Preserve are requesting assistance with an ongoing investigation involving the theft of trail cameras that were deployed in the Ochopee area of the park. These trail cameras aid the park in determining the presence of a neurological disorder found in Florida panthers and bobcats. 

Between January 21, 2021 and February 2, 2021 a total of seven (7) trail cameras and associated equipment were illegally taken. The estimated value is $2,300. Theft of government property is a federal offense (18 USC § 641). 

The Florida panther is a federally endangered mammal whose remaining population in the eastern United States is confined to south Florida. Big Cypress National Preserve is the largest area of natural habitat that supports the core of the panther population. 

"The Florida panther is one of the most endangered mammals in the United States," stated park Superintendent Thomas Forsyth, "and unless this neurological disorder is identified and controlled, the panther population may not continue to exist in south Florida. Damage or theft of government property is a serious incident and we are asking the public to assist us in identifying the responsible parties."

If you have information that could aid this ongoing investigation, please submit a tip. You don't have to tell us who you are, but please tell us what you know:

CALL or TEXT the Tip Line 888-653-0009

ONLINE www.nps.gov/ISB > click "Submit a Tip"

EMAIL [e-mail]

EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1

 

Big Cypress National Preserve conserves a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered Florida panther.