What animals do before war: Chimps climb hills, mongooses post guards

When we think about animals fighting, we often think that the fight happens in the heat of the moment. But scientists say the real story begins much earlier. Long before any fight starts, many social animals quietly prepare themselves.A new review published in the journal Trends in Ecology & Evolution, has found that animals such as chimpanzees, meerkats, mongooses, baboons and even ants change their behaviour when they expect conflict with rival groups.These preparations can include staying silent, watching for danger, marking territory, carrying out raids and even spending more time grooming or playing with one another.Researchers say these actions are not random. They help animals gather information, reduce risks and improve their chances of surviving a conflict over territory, food, space or mates.Preparing for warThe researchers explain that conflict between different groups of the same species is common across the natural world.