Hi Terry! Some researchers define an ecological niche as a "n-dimensional hyperspace" in which the different dimensions are the different ecological and environmental factors acting on the organism (temperature, humidity, seasonality, rainfall, sunlight, etc.). So, perhaps this is what you're describing? An animal exists in the real world in its niche, and its behaviors are influenced by (and likely responses to) its ecological niche (i.e. the factors in this hyperspace). I hope this helps!! Let me know if you don't understand any of the terms I've used above!