Advertisement

Florida panthers, bobcat afflicted by mysterious stumbling disorder

Click to play video: 'Wildlife officials investigate mystery illness that causes bobcats, Florida panthers to stumble'
Wildlife officials investigate mystery illness that causes bobcats, Florida panthers to stumble
WATCH ABOVE: Wildlife officials investigate mystery illness that causes bobcats, Florida panthers to stumble – Aug 21, 2019

Florida wildlife officials are investigating a disorder that causes Florida panthers to have trouble walking.

A video from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shows the affected panthers walking abnormally, mostly kittens. Trail cameras in three counties identified eight endangered panthers and one bobcat walking with a hitch in their step.

A press release says a mysterious neurological disorder is impacting their ability to co-ordinate their back legs.

READ MORE: Broken bones in pets may not be life threatening but take care when handling

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute director Gil McRae says numerous diseases and possible causes have been ruled out, but a definitive cause has not yet been determined.

McRae also says that they are testing for potential toxins, rat poison, infection or nutrient deficiencies.

Story continues below advertisement

The endangered animal population is believed to be between 120 to 230 in number.

WATCH: Adorable Denver Zoo lion cub turns three weeks old

Click to play video: 'Adorable Denver Zoo lion cub turns three weeks old'
Adorable Denver Zoo lion cub turns three weeks old

Sponsored content

AdChoices