That is, a narrow range around the focus point will be in sharp focus.
A wide aperture, f/2.8 for example, creates a shallow depth of field. That is, a narrow range around the focus point will be in sharp focus. The background and maybe part of the animal will be in soft focus. With a narrow aperture such as f/11 or higher, the depth of field for a sharp image is wider. The entire animal and perhaps the background will be in sharp focus.