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 threat emerges, the sentinel meerkat signals to its companions so they can retreat to safety in their subterranean shelters. However, the meerkat's act of putting itself at risk for the benefit of others puts it in danger of being identified by the predator.