Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

stotting

verb

/ˈstɒt.ɪŋ/

Definition

The act of leaping into the air as a display of health and strength, typically seen in certain animals, particularly in response to a predator.

Examples

The gazelle was stotting across the savannah to show off its strength to the nearby lion.
When threatened by predators, the antelope began stotting, gracefully leaping into the air.
Stotting can often confuse predators, making them reconsider their chase.

Meaning

Stotting is a behavior exhibited by some herbivores to signal to predators that they are fit and not worth chasing. It involves jumping high into the air as a way of making themselves more visible and indicating that they are healthy enough to escape.