Research overview: estimating ocelot density in fragmented landscapes

Spatially explicit capture-recapture using camera traps and individual coat patterns has become the standard method for estimating ocelot density across forest, agricultural and peri-urban mosaics. This overview synthesises density studies spanning protected forest to fragmented and human-influenced sites, examining how prey availability, cover and hunting pressure drive variation, and how ocelots can reach surprisingly high densities where conditions allow. It covers methodological considerations in detecting and identifying individuals, and the use of density estimates to monitor population responses to habitat conversion. The synthesis frames camera-trap density work as the empirical backbone of ocelot conservation in changing landscapes.