Meerkat helpers increase sentinel behaviour and bipedal vigilance in the presence of pups

► In cooperative animal societies, helpers assist breeders in rearing their offspring. ► Helpers may also engage in sentinel behaviour and other forms of vigilance. ► It remains unclear whether these behaviours are selfish or cooperative. ► Meerkat helpers adjust sentinel behaviour/bipedal vigilance to the presence of pups. ► Sentinel behaviour and bipedal vigilance in meerkat helpers thus appear cooperative.