Primal instinct

Primal instinct is the ability of a being or animal to call upon the primitive and/or animalistic instinctive urges within them. Almost all animals possess this to some degree or another, though it is most commonly seen in canines, felines and the great apes. In humans, this derives from a genetic holdover from the days of yore when we were still monkeys swinging through trees. The benefit of such a gift is that it allows one to harness physical enhancements in keeping with their immediate situation or environment. Some may experience a surge of Adrenalin, while others may find their senses finely tuned. Supernatural creatures such as werewolves automatically inherit this as an element of their relationship to the wolf.

Most humans cannot harness this ability, but there are those who have undergone some mutation in their physical development, or through scientific experimentation that allows them to get in touch with their inner animal. The sci-fi action anti-hero Riddick from Pitch Black and The Chronicles of Riddick is but one example of a person who martial this primal urge. As Riddick himself might say, "It's an animal thing."

The Marvel Comics superhero Wolverine likewise possesses this ability, though he seldom possesses any measure of control over it. He can sometimes call upon this to maintain a sense of dominance over certain animals like dogs or wolves, which is ideal for keeping them from attacking him. It also allows him the ability to travel through a wooded area without alerting other animals to his presence. In times of duress, Wolverine's animal instincts overwhelm him and he goes into what he calls a "berzerker rage". His conscious mind is subsumed by his primitive instincts until there is nothing left but the animal. These are the moments when Wolverine is at his most dangerous.