The jump-yip display of the black-tailed prairie dog cynomys ludovicianus

Abstract

A frequent behaviour pattern of Cynomys ludovicianus is a formalized upward leap with a sharp vocalization: the ‘jump-yip’ display. It is performed in very diverse circumstances by individuals who have been startled, are being cautious, or have been involved with territorial defence. They behave in various ways, here divided into eight categories, but in all cases are less likely to flee after jumpyipping than immediately before. Virtually any act in its repertoire other than escape may then follow, although attack is rare. Providing information about the relative probabilities of escape and alternative acts appears to be very important in the complex interactions of this unusually social ground squirrel.