Fiercely protective. This wasn’t an aggressive stance—the sow was only trying to get a better look at what her nose told her was there. I was grateful for the moment. Direct eye contact for a matter of seconds with a large predator, on her turf, as she decided if I was a threat to her cubs.
We’re not that different, she and I. The endgame’s the same though the reasons may differ.
Her look seemed to say, “If you come for me, you better be ready for what I’m going to do to you.”
I can applaud that. I can respect that. I can relate to that.
Be the bear—stand your ground.
it's (almost always) about the water... 
I love your words. Some of us know that there is so much more behind those words. GOOD ONE Sheryl.
Oh, that look! A privilege of note, to be on the receiving end! I feel as if I am standing in your shoes.