In *Xerus inauris* colonies, what cooperative behavior is observed during foraging times?
Answer
Individuals often cooperate in watching for danger while others forage
The *Xerus* genus, particularly the Cape ground squirrel (*Xerus inauris*), exhibits a high degree of social cooperation within its colony structure. This cooperation is evident during the risky activity of foraging above ground. While some members are engaged in feeding on surface vegetation or searching for roots, other individuals will take on sentinel duty, remaining upright to scan the surrounding environment actively for potential threats, such as birds of prey or terrestrial carnivores. Upon spotting danger, the sentinel emits sharp alarm calls, prompting the foraging members to retreat rapidly into the safety of their burrows.
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