Fetal position

In this position, the back is curved, the head is bowed, and the limbs are bent and drawn up to the torso.

Many newborn mammals, especially rodents, remain in a fetal position well after birth.

This type of compact position is used in the medical profession to minimize injury to the neck and chest.

[2] Sometimes, when a person has suffered extreme physical or psychological trauma (including massive stress), they will assume a similar compact position in which the back is curved forward, the legs are brought up as tightly against the abdomen as possible, the head is bowed as close to the abdomen as possible, and the arms are wrapped around the head to prevent further trauma.

Assuming this type of position and playing dead is often recommended as a strategy to end a bear attack.