Squirrels listen to birds

[Catherine]

Researchers studying animal behavior have determined that squirrels literally listen to bird chatter. When birds are chattering amongst themselves and singing calmly squirrels relax and carry on with life. If the birds are reacting to danger the squirrels respond to the birds reaction.

https://phys.org/news/2019-09-squirrels-...afety.html

This makes sense. A squirrel on its own would be in a constant state of alarm. There are so many dangers. The poor squirrel would hardly find time to eat. Birds usually gather in numbers and they do collectively watch for danger. That way they don't all have to be on high alert all the time. Squirrels are smart enough to take advantage of that. 

This really fits my bird feeder observations. The squirrels could eat at the feeder any time, but they seem to prefer eating when the birds are there.

This makes me wonder how many other species help each other out like this. We expect members of the same species in a flock or herd to watch out for each other. How many other species take advantage of that in different situations. I have observed that with my lizards. I have a tank of different kinds of lizards together and they are more relaxed when they realize that they are not alone.
When safety is shared it is easier for everyone.

I wonder how the birds feel about the squirrels?