Animal Territories

Many animals claim a specific area as their own. This area is called a territory. Animals defend their territory from others of the same species. Having a territory helps animals find enough food, water, and space to raise their young.

Marking Territory

Animals use different methods to mark their territory. Dogs and wolves leave scent marks. Birds sing songs to warn others to stay away. Tigers scratch trees to show their territory. Some fish even change colors to signal that an area belongs to them.

Defending Territory

Animals will fight to protect their territory if they need to. Male deer clash antlers during mating season. Birds chase away intruders that enter their space. However, most animals try to avoid actual fights. They use warning displays, loud sounds, and other signals first.

Fun Facts

• A male tiger's territory can cover up to 400 square miles.
• Hummingbirds fiercely defend their feeding territories despite their tiny size.
• Howler monkeys are so loud that their calls can be heard 3 miles away to mark territory.

Did You Know?

Some animals have tiny territories. A clownfish may defend a territory that is only a few feet across around its anemone home!