Question

What is the difference between a habitat and a niche?

I understand it a little bit but need some more help

~THanks~

Answer 1

A habitat is the environment in which a creature lives. A niche is a small place that only that creature claims within that habitat.

Here's an amusing example I saw last May in the huge pine tree outside my apartment.

For at least 5 minutes, a bluejay chased a squirrel up and down the tree. It was obvious that the bird had a nest with eggs high in the tree. The squirrel saw that nest as a dinner plate. Both the squirrel and the bluejay's habitat was the pine tree. But the bird's niche was high in the tree and s/he defended it from a predator.

Answer 2

Thanks so much!

Answer 3

You're welcome.