Florida Panther and Bobcat Capture and Management Services

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking competitive proposals for Florida Panther and Bobcat Capture and Management Services through a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued on August 19, 2025. The solicitation targets experienced professionals capable of identifying puma sign and safely live-capturing puma and bobcats using hounds, primarily in Collier, Lee, and Hendry Counties, with potential extension to other areas with verified panther occurrences. Contractors must provide trained hounds vaccinated against rabies, possess a vehicle capable of pulling equipment, demonstrate proficiency with 4-wheel drive and all-terrain vehicles, and maintain accurate records. The initial contract term is one year, with options to renew for up to three additional years, with the capture season running from November 1 to March 1 and potential emergency services from March through October. Key requirements include providing weekly and daily rates for capture services, using personal protective equipment, and submitting weekly COVID-19 self-tests during the capture season. The proposal submission deadline is September 10, 2025, with an anticipated contract award date of October 15, 2025. Contractors will work collaboratively as part of a capture team that includes a Capture Team Leader, veterinarian, and support biologists, with the primary objective of supporting the conservation and management of Florida panthers and bobcats.

Vendors must be registered in the MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) system and with SunBiz prior to the bid opening, which may indicate some restrictions on potential contractors. The RFP does not explicitly mention set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises or specific minority business requirements. The annual budget for this project is approximately $50,000, with contractors expected to provide detailed pricing for their capture services. A travel trailer may be available for use, with the contractor responsible for any associated parking or hookup fees. While the document does not list incumbent vendors, it suggests a collaborative approach to wildlife management that requires specialized skills in animal capture and conservation. The successful contractor will need to demonstrate expertise in working with wildlife, handling animals safely, and maintaining detailed documentation of capture activities. The contract appears designed to support ongoing research and management efforts for Florida panthers and bobcats, with a focus on professional, scientifically-oriented service delivery.