Exceptions do occur, usually when a female and male come together when the female is in heat, but even so, the female may attack the male after mating.

The scientists have seen several cases when females will chase off interloping males, or jointly attack an alliance that tries to take away one of their own.

Paired females will attack other females in the territory, especially if the male has shown an interest in them.

If a male attempts to mate with her at this point, the female will attack him.

A female may attack if she feels that her calves are threatened.

The adult females are persistent biters and will attack at any time of the day.

If any creature comes near the eggs, the female will attack it, though if it kills the creature, will not eat it.

Pregnant and lactating females are particularly aggressive and will attack individuals that come too close.

When presented with a foreign object, be it a wire, stick, or a wandering insect, the female will attack, eating the invader if possible.

A female may attack a male, but usually he is more than a match for her.