Its principal prey are the white tailed deer and armadillos, but it will take other prey, such as wild hogs, raccoons, other small animals and birds. It sometimes also eats grass. Panthers begin to breed at about three years of age. From December through February, the females initiate courtship and males fight for first breeding privileges. Gestation is about 90 days and up to six kittens may be born.
Young panthers stay close to their mother for about two years.
The Florida panther generally needs subtropical, dense forests composed mainly of trees, shrubs, and vines in low-lying, swampy areas. It has also been found at times in pine forests. To thrive it requires large areas-as much as 116 sq. The female alone is responsible for raising the kittens. During the first 2 to 3 weeks after giving birth the female spends most of her time in the den nursing her kittens .