|
For anyone planning to head to the Brazilian Pantanal on a Jaguar safari with a view to observing the big cat in its natural habitat, understanding its role within the rainforest eco-system can make the experience all the more fulfilling. The Apex Predator of the Jungle As the apex predator of its South American habitat, Panthera onca plays a pivotal role in maintaining the delicate balance of the eco-system. By controlling the populations of smaller prey species, the big cat is doing the job it's supposed to and playing a part in regulating the eco-diversity of the region. In fact, every plant, every animal and every insect, bacteria and organism - no matter how small or seemingly insignificant - has its own role to play in the web of life. The Role of the Predator The role of the predator in the rainforest is manifold. In the Jaguar's case it is an opportunistic hunter, with a diet of more than 85 known species of fish, birds, reptiles and mammals and even some plants. By keeping down the numbers of certain species, food sources (be they vegetation or smaller prey species) are preserved, causing a knock-on effect down the food chain. As well as keeping the populations of prey species in check, predators also eradicate sick or weak animals so they don't pass on their illness or inferior traits through their own species. Upsetting the Balance Understanding all these factors brings the magnificent Panthera onca's status as 'near threatened' into sharp focus, with conservationists warning that, quite aside from the tragedy of a dwindling population, the over-arching effects could be devastating on a global ecological scale. How it's Already Happening Far from being scare-mongering by conservationists, the effects of the declining populations of some of the world's apex predators are already becoming clear. The spread of noxious and highly infectious diseases throughout the world is a direct result of what's termed an 'ecological release', which is a sharp increase in the population of carrier species due to fewer numbers of predatory species. Diseases like SARS and Ebola are certainly not new to the planet, but in recent years their spread and reach have increased dramatically around the world. Working on a Solution In the end, in order for any conservation programme to be sustainable, global education is needed. One way of raising the profile of the South American big cats is through the excellent Jaguar safari itineraries conducted by reputable wildlife travel companies. But experts say time is running out and more proactive initiatives need to be implemented. One way of doing this is by the establishment of so-called corridors through which the big cats can pass through habitat (often including human landscape) in safety, reducing the effects of fragmentation. Apart from allowing safe passage for the big cat to hunt, maintaining free movement to mate between ranges ensures genetic diversity and viability – vastly increasing the chances of survival for the species. While there are numerous other conservation programmes in place throughout the Brazilian Pantanal (where most of the Jaguar safari activity occurs) and the rest of South America, this enigmatic big cat's very existence remains in the balance, meaning so too does its entire eco-system. It's never been more important to fight for its survival. Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer with a special interest in Jaguar watching. Being passionate about her subject, Marissa chooses the expert-led Jaguar safari itineraries organised by Naturetrek, which have brought her unforgettable sightings of a wide range of wildlife in some of the most spectacular regions on Earth.
Related Articles -
Jaguar, safari,
| 
