snarling

Snarling is a vocalization and associated facial expression used by some mammals to threaten or deter rivals or predators. It typically involves a low, rumbling growl produced with the lips drawn back to expose the teeth, often accompanied by a bared or curled upper lip and a tense body posture.

Purpose and context: Snarling serves as a warning signal to avoid physical confrontation by conveying aggression without contact. It is common during territorial disputes, guarding resources, parent-offspring defense, or predator deterrence and can occur in other social interactions.

Species and variation: The behavior occurs in canids (domestic dogs, wolves, foxes), some felids (pumas, bobcats), bears, and some primates; the vocalization and intensity vary by species and individual.

Acoustic profile: The snarling sound ranges from a low-pitched rumble to a harsher, snarling growl, sometimes with short bursts; the exact timbre depends on the animal and context.

Behavioral cues and safety: Snarling is frequently accompanied by other signals such as raised hackles, stiff body posture, ears pinned back, and direct gaze; in many cases it precedes a bite, but some individuals retreat or de-escalate.

In humans: The term is also used metaphorically to describe a hostile facial expression or voice, as in "snarling" at someone; unlike animal snarls, human snarling is primarily a linguistic and social behavior.