New research explores how social animals respond to the possibility of conflict, highlighting overlooked behaviours that may influence survival, group dynamics, and the evolution of complex societies. However, evolution can also select for pre-emptive behaviours which heighten the chances of winning during conflict. Humans are known to prepare for conflict by increasing surveillance, conducting raids, and moving through enemy territory using stealth to avoid detection. Modern studies of animals provide similar examples of preparation for conflict with rival groups. “Intergroup conflict could be an important social driver of cognitive evolution,” Radford said.