Bears communicate among themselves using different means: vision, touch, smell, sound. This is how they seek a mate, alleviate tension in an encounter; this is how a mother handles her cubs or helps them locate her. Different sounds can indicate satisfaction, irritability, fear, or pain. Like with humans, every sound has its intonation. When two strange bears meet in the woods, they immediately announce their disposition and intentions. Growling and roaring mightily, they express threats to one another, as well as to humans.