I can’t remember the exact verbiage in English, but less French.
What is the exact quote that says ‘The animal is mean, because it fights back’?
Is it this?
“This animal is very bad; when you attack it, it defends itself.”
Origin:
Cet animal est très méchant,
Quand on l’attaque il se défend.
That’s it!
Thank you… Merci.
Next time, I’ll remember to just copy and paste it instead of just providing the link 
A day later, I’ve just noticed that this should be ‘much less French.’