There is a slight difference in eating habits between the northern and southern Panthers. Deer and hogs accounted for 42 percent and 22 percent in the south, and 23 and 63 percent in the north. The Florida Panther is a large animal that needs substantial amounts of food and therefore is adapted to catching prey larger than itself. Although the large prey is adequate for the Panthers, they also consume some smaller prey. Studies in the Everglades show that a Florida Panther has killed and ate two 1.5 meter-long alligators .
Panthers also eat carrion and grass.
Raccoons, armadillos, and rabbits are also eaten, especially in areas where large prey are scarce. Panthers will also eat birds and alligators. An adult panther can eat the equivalent of 30 to 50 deer per year. Females raising young generally require more. Preferred prey is more abundant in the northern Big Cypress Basin, therefore, panthers inhabiting this area are healthier and more productive that those inhabiting the southern Big Cypress basin.