A trail camera on public lands in Southwest Florida captured an unusual animal sighting
Shared by the South Florida Wildlands Association (SFWA) on March 14, 2025, the photo reveals a dark, long-tailed creature with glowing eyes moving through the night.
This mysterious animal has left experts and observers puzzled, generating over 200 comments across social media platforms.
The SFWA posted the image on Facebook, inviting public input on the creature’s identity. Commenters suggested possibilities like a bobcat, Florida panther, feral cat, or even a small dog.
Some noted what appears to be a harness, adding to the intrigue. Despite its feline shape and eye shine, the SFWA doubts it’s a domestic cat, as these are rarely seen in the protected state and federal lands where the photo was taken.
Wildlife in Southwest Florida: What Could It Be?
Southwest Florida’s wildlands are home to bobcats and the endangered Florida panther. Bobcats typically have short tails and spotted coats, while Florida panthers are larger with powerful builds.
The SFWA noted that feral cats struggle to survive in these areas, making their presence unlikely. One wild theory suggests a jaguarundi, a sleek wild cat from South America, though it’s not native to Florida.
To aid identification, the SFWA shared additional trail camera images from the same spot, featuring known local wildlife for scale. The motion-triggered camera continues to monitor the area, and the group hopes more footage will solve the mystery.
This sighting follows another notable wildlife moment in Florida. Recently, a viral video by Dick Brewer and WINK Weather’s Matt Devitt showed a Florida panther facing off with an opossum.
The endangered cat, with only about 200 left in the wild, approached the opossum before walking away. Florida panthers, protected by law, are a rare sight and a symbol of successful conservation efforts.
The Mystery Continues
The identity of the creature in the SFWA’s trail camera photo remains unknown. With ongoing monitoring and community input, answers may soon emerge. For now, this unusual sighting keeps Southwest Florida’s wildlife in the spotlight, captivating nature lovers and curious minds alike.
