If a predator approaches, the sentry meerkat lets out a warning call so the others can burrow to safety. However, the altruism of this meerkat puts it at risk of being discovered by the predator.
If a predator approaches, the sentry meerkat emits an alert vocalization to alert its companions so they can take cover in their burrows. However, the selflessness of this meerkat puts it at risk of being detected by the predator.