Historical ecology is the study of how ecosystems and human societies have interacted over time. It combines insights from ecology, history, and archaeology to understand how past environments were shaped by natural processes and human activities. Researchers examine changes in landscapes, species distributions, and resource use to reveal patterns of ecological change. By analyzing historical data, such as paleoecological records and archaeological findings, scientists can identify the long-term impacts of human actions on the environment. This approach helps to inform current conservation efforts and sustainable practices by providing context for how ecosystems have evolved and adapted through time.