territorial behavior

Territorial behavior is an animal's method of protecting its territory from intrusions. Many species display this behavior and an organism may mark their territory with sounds or their scent. Territorial behavior is considered an adaptation because it allows the organism to mate undisturbed and prevents an overcrowded situation and competition over resources, among other benefits. Many species will display an aggressive behavior if an intruder invades their territory. Wolves and dogs are known to be prime examples of species that tend to display territorial aggression and they mark their territories in a simple manner as well. Wolves howl and dogs bark to signify their claim to a territory and they both urinate to leave their scent on their claims.