Odds of Getting In
Job opportunities for ecologists are just as good as they are for other working stiffs—which is to say, merely okay. But as long as buildings are being built and fires are burning them down, there'll always be a need for ecologists. The best prospects belong to the folks who have the academic degrees and skills.
Work experience is also a major plus, so maybe think twice before fleeing school the minute you're able. Try to work out a research assistant position instead. You can find your way into the field if you work hard, but these jobs don't grow on trees—and what kind of ecologist would think they did?