Many species of animals take actions to mark or defend their territory. The most familiar of which is when a dog urinates on a tree or post to claim that territory as its own (the urine has a distinct scent that is unique to that dog). I decided to take a different approach to this term by using something very familiar to us that we don’t normally recognize as territorial behavior. Humans use signs and fences to mark their territories. Between your house and your neighbor’s house there is probably a fence. There is also probably a sign advising you to use the correct sex’s public restroom. Pictured is a fence and a few signs marking a restricted area. Obviously, it wouldn’t be smart to drive into this restricted area since there are threats of severe tire damage; the area is also equipped with cameras and a security guard. It can be clearly seen that this area is well marked and protected from trespassers. A few other examples of territorial behavior are birds sitting their nest to defend their young, lizards showing off their dewlaps, etc.
A P Biology 2013 - 2014 