From monkeys to fish: Animals other than dogs that bark

Mar 6, 2025 Sonal Khandelwal

Barking wildlife

Although barking is typically linked to dogs, various other animals make similar sounds. From monkeys to fish, these creatures use barking-like vocalisations for communication, alert signals, and attracting mates. Pexels

Capybara

These large rodents bark to signal danger or maintain group cohesion. Their short, sharp calls help them stay connected in dense vegetation, ensuring their safety from predators lurking nearby. Pexels

Deer

Certain deer species, like muntjacs, emit barking sounds to alert others of danger. Their sharp, repetitive calls serve as a survival mechanism, helping them evade predators in dense forest environments. Pexels

Fish

Certain fish, like the dogfish and midshipman fish, produce bark-like sounds by grinding their teeth or using their swim bladders. These noises help them communicate, warn rivals, or attract mates. Pexels

Gecko

Some gecko species bark as a form of defence or territorial display. Their sharp, clicking calls warn intruders and help maintain dominance within their preferred rocky or arboreal habitats. Pexels

Meerkat

Meerkats use short, barking vocalisations to alert their group of nearby predators. Their coordinated alarm system helps them respond quickly, ensuring the survival of their highly social and organised communities. Pexels

Monkey

Some monkey species, including howler and baboon groups, produce barking-like sounds to assert dominance, warn of threats, or coordinate within their social groups, strengthening communication in their complex jungle habitats. Pexels

Owl

Some owl species produce barking calls, often mistaken for dogs in the night. These sounds are used for territorial warnings, mate attraction, and communicating with their young in dark forested areas. Pexels

Fox

Foxes are known for their distinctive barking calls, which they use to communicate with family members, warn intruders, or express distress. Their sharp, yipping barks are common in urban and wild settings. Pexels

Sea lion

Sea lions produce deep, barking vocalisations to communicate within their colonies. These sounds help them establish hierarchy, call their young, and coordinate movements in their dynamic marine environments. Pexels

Seal

Seals emit deep, bark-like sounds to establish territory and attract mates. Their vocalisations, often heard on rocky shores, play a crucial role in maintaining social structures within large colonies. Pexels

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