An ecological niche refers to the role and position a species has in its environment, including how it obtains resources, interacts with other organisms, and contributes to the ecosystem. It encompasses factors such as habitat, food sources, and behaviors that allow a species to survive and reproduce. Different species can occupy similar niches, but they often adapt to minimize competition. For example, two bird species might feed on the same insects but do so at different times of day or in different areas. This differentiation helps maintain balance within ecosystems, such as those found in forests or grasslands.