On April 8, 2026, South Florida Wildlands and allies filed a lawsuit to protect the endangered Florida panther from a massive development threatening core habitat in Southwest Florida.

The proposed Rural Lands West project would destroy about 5,000 acres near the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge—and it’s just one of many developments on the horizon. This case challenges a broken approval system that has allowed decades of habitat loss and fragmentation. A win here could change the playing field and the future for the panther.

For over 16 years, South Florida Wildlands has fought to protect these lands from a variety of threats. This is our most critical case yet—and we need your help.

Legal fights like this take resources. Please consider donating to support the protection of vital habitat and give the Florida panther a fighting chance.

South Florida Wildlands is suing to protect Florida panthers!