After becoming obsessed with wild traps, the “iconic” Florida Panther, who spent his days in Zutampa, died at the age of 12.
According to Zookeepers, Walter was taken to Zootampa in dangerous condition after it was discovered in 2017 that he was caught in a snare trap with “serious injuries” on his left leg and neck, which was “seriously injured.”
He suffered a partial amputation of his leg and was unable to return to the wild, so he spent the next eight years at the zoo.
“Walter’s charming personality and charisma made him a favorite of both guests, staff and volunteers,” Zookeepers said. “His story helped educate visitors on how to coexist peacefully with the amazing wildlife found in our state.”
Zookeepers said Walter’s health began to decline in the days leading up to his death, and “despite his 24-hour medical intervention, he continued to decline.” The zoo announced his death Monday.
Walter and the other two Panthers at the Zoo were featured in a 2020 docusary of National Geographic in Zootampa, dubbed “Zoo: The Secret of Tampa.”
“If he hadn’t been found, if he hadn’t been rescued, he wouldn’t have any doubts about it,” former Zutampa veterinarian Dr. Ray Ball said in the documentary. “And we’ve never had a cat that lost a part of its legs before.”
Walter underwent multiple surgeries and rehabilitated for a year before being moved to a modified habitat to deal with the injury.
“I loved watching him in his enclosure,” one visitor said on social media. “Despite his injuries, his agility is still amazing and he’s always going to run to snacks from his keeper.”
Others said they emphasized that they would always visit Walter while they were at the zoo.
“Through the show, I learned everything about Walter and the Florida Panthers,” a Facebook user said. “You’ve all educated so many people through your incredible efforts.”
The Panthers can live up to 20 years in the wild, but threats like habitat loss and fatal vehicle strikes contribute to less than 250 adults, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This month, four Panthers have already been killed in cars within a week.
The zoo encouraged those who interacted with Walter to share photos and memories on social media.
“This is another opportunity to help save endangered species,” Dr. Larry Kilmer said in 2020. “And we can do that. We still have time to do it. And that’s the key part. We’ll never give up on these projects.”
