Natural history provides the essential empirical foundation and passion for ecological science.  Moreover, natural history provides the basis for effective conservation, and, as is increasingly clear, necessary grounding for healthy human individuals and cultures.  Because humans evolved to practice natural history--to pay careful attention to the world in which we live--we remain predisposed toward natural history engagement. Thus, the wonder and mystery sparked by natural history provide inherent portals for people of all backgrounds to connect with the science of Ecology.  This session is sponsored by the ESA Natural History Section.