LA BELLE, Fla. — The state’s first panther death for 2011 has been recorded in Hendry County.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reports that an 8-year-old male was found dead on private property Wednesday. The animal’s radio collar had been emitting a signal that indicated the panther had not moved for long time and could be dead.

The cause of death wasn’t known, but officials say it appeared to be a natural death. There were no signs of trauma.

A total of 23 panthers were found dead in 2010, including 16 killed by vehicles.

Biologists estimate the panther population in Florida to be between 100 and 120.

bigcatrescue.org