Territoriality

Territoriality is the behavior by which an animal lays claim to and defends an area against others of its species, and occasionally members of other species as well. The territory defended could be hundreds of square miles in size, or only slightly larger than the animal itself. It may be occupied by a single animal, a pair, family, or entire herd or swarm of animals. Some animals hold and defend a territory year-round, and use the territory as a source of food and shelter. Other animals establish a territory only at certain times of the year, when it is needed for attracting a mate, breeding, and/or raising a family.