Abstract
The semi-precocial young of the black skimmer ( Rynchops niger) rely on cryptic behaviour to avoid detection by predators. After capture most individuals emit loud distress calls, and chicks crouched nearby often run just seconds after these calls begin. Experimental distress calls significantly increase the likelihood of running, regardless of whether a sibling or non-sibling call is used. Since chicks in close proximity are usually siblings, such distress notes could evolve through kin selection, even if disadvantageous to the caller. On the other hand, such calls may startle and distract a predator, providing the captive with an opportunity to escape.
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