"The noises are thought to alert relatives nearby, because the caller has a vested interest that everybody gets the message," Carey says. Evolution, not altruism, drives this behavior, as most of the nearby members of the same species are likely to be related.

What do chipmunk sounds mean?

Chipmunk sounds or chipmunk alarm calls are usually emitted in the presence of a predator. These alarm calls can vary according to the type of predator as well. For instance, a chipping sound is usually emitted in the presence of a mammalian predator. ... Trills are emitted when a chipmunk is being chased by a predator.

Why do chipmunks make a clicking sound?

One chipmunk starts calling, and the message is passed on to other relatives, who join in. These vocal little rodents are warning each other of the presence of an aerial predator, perhaps a hawk or day-hunting owl. The next time you hear this distinctive alarm call, look skyward.