How is the ocelot important to its environment?

Answer 1

The Ocelot, like all predators, is important for keeping down the numbers of its prey. When predators are removed, their prey overpopulates and causes problems with food supplies. this may lead to diseases being passed among the prey species, or to the species themselves becoming pests.

An excellent example is the removal of predators and more recent restrictions on hunting deer in the Northeast United States. The deer herd, formerly kept in check by the hunters (in the absence of the wolves, lynxes and mountain lions that were its previous predators) has now overpopulated, and is coming down into towns and populated areas where the deer cause problems with crops. Practically the entire herd suffers from diseases, where previously the sick and lame animals would have been culled by the predators. Lyme disease -- carried by deer ticks -- is far more common among humans, and many people are injured or killed from striking deer on highways.

Bambi did deer a huge disservice, as have do-gooders who don't want them killed. We mess with the ecological balance at our peril. Unfortunately, it may have taken us too long to figure that out.

Caveat: the writer is a Buddhist, against killing in general -- but more against suffering. It is better for animals to be culled, as in nature's plan, than for them to suffer from starvation and disease, or to be killed cleanly by a bullet or shotgun blast than injured by an automobile.

Answer 2

Ocelots play a crucial role in their environment as they help maintain balance within the ecosystem by regulating populations of prey species. They are efficient predators, helping to control rodent and small mammal populations. Additionally, ocelots are indicator species, meaning their presence indicates a healthy ecosystem.