Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA
By Shane Gorbett, Board of Directors, The Animal Behavior Management Alliance
66: Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedure and Other Behavior Topics with Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior Works
This episode Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior Works, provides some great learning and insights into a multitude of current topics surrounding the science of behavior change. Dr. Friedman starts with discussing the Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedures; what it is, how we can view it to provide optimal welfare to animals, and also the importance of antecedent arrangement and the environment to behavior change. She also breaks down what it means and looks like in practice when we strive for most positive, least intrusive, effective intervention. Dr. Friedman then gives a summary on the free operant approach to enrichment. She finishes the discussion by diving into the concept of control by honoring the no and shaping the yes. Stay tuned in for Dr. Friedman’s very unique "Training Tale" about plant learning. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Dr. Friedman email sgf@behaviorworks.org
For more information and to register for the ABMA virtual courses visit this link: https://www.theabma.org/behavior-management-courses
To complete the podcast feedback survey visit this link: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/Rspt0Bk/abcpodcast2025
Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
5:10 Introduction to Dr. Susan Friedman and Behavior Works
19:25 Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedures
27:00 Most Positive, Least Intrusive, Effective Intervention
36:20 The importance of antecedent arrangement and the environment on behavior
48:05 Free Operant approach to enrichment
1:07:00 Honor the No, Shape the Yes
65: Recap of the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas, United States with Marie Filipe, Heidi Moomaw, Benjamin Fainted, Matthew Nguyen, & Li Shan Tan
This episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference (April 27 - May 2 2025) hosted by Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, United States. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them.
Day 1: Marie Filipek, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park
Day 2: Heidi Moomaw, Charles River Labs
Day 3: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo
Day 4: Matthew Nguyen & Li Shan Tan, Resorts World Sentosa
If you are an ABMA member be sure to log in to Animalprofessional.com to watch most of the presentations and panels from the 2025 conference. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org. Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
Here is the link to the podcast survey. We really appreciate your feedback! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/Rspt0Bk/abcpodcast2025
Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
5:10 Discussion of Conference Day 1 with Marie Filipek, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park.
12:15 Discussion of Conference Day 2 with Heidi Moomaw, Charles River Labs
35:10 Discussion of Conference Day 3 with Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo
53:15 Discussion of Conference Day 4 with Matthew Nguyen & Li Shan Tan, Resorts World Sentosa
64: The Importance of Behavior in Modern Animal Care - A Live Panel Recording at the 2025 Annual Conference with panelist Tim Sullivan, Elly Neumann, Nicki Boyd, Anaka Nazareth, and Chris Jenkins
This episode was a live panel recording at the 2025 ABMA annual conference in Galveston Texas hosted by Moody Gardens. The expert panel consisted of Tim Sullivan - Brookfield Zoo, Elly Neumann - Jerusalem Zoo, Nicki Boyd- San Diego Zoo, Anaka Nazareth - National Aquarium, and Chris Jenkins - Natural Encounters Inc. The panel’s theme was “The Importance of Behavior in Modern Animal Care” with questions submitted in real time from the conference attendees. The panel discussed a wide range of topics ranging from the growth of the role behavior plays in welfare to the evolution and next steps in enrichment, to advice on getting buy-in for change. In the absence of a “Training Tale” for this episode, each of the panelists utilize their years of experience to provide their “Animal Behavior Advice”. For questions or suggestions about the podcast or to get in contact with the panelists email abc@theabma.org. Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
63: Training on the Continuum: Moving Away from Coercion and Towards Genuine Choice with Steve Martin, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc., discusses training on a continuum by moving away from coercion and towards genuine choice. Steve starts the episode by giving a review of the concepts of choice and… control with some practical examples. The discussion then turns to breaking down behavioral degrees of freedom, genuine choice, and coercion with many more great practical examples. The episode ends with Steve outlining that real-world animal training requires us to train on the continuum but always striving towards providing genuine choice in order to enhance an animal’s welfare. Stay tuned in for Steve’s motivation and emotional "Training Tale" about a trainer from a show at the Singapore Zoo. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Steve email s.martin@naturalencounters.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:45 Introduction to Steve Martin
9:25 Review of Choice and… Control
18:55 Degrees of Behavioral Freedom
28:20 Free Choice
30:35 Genuine Choice
44:05 Coercion
56:15 Training on the Continuum
1:04:15 “Training Tales”
62: Motivation and its Affect on Behavior with Mel Paynter & Alyse Stitt, Georgia Aquarium
This episode Mel Paynter and Alyse Stitt, Georgia Aquarium, discuss motivation in the context of animal behavior and training. In part 1 of this two episode discussion Mel and Alyse discuss what motivation is, what it looks like in practice, and give some o-fish-ally great examples from the many aquatic species that they work with in the Ocean Voyager habitat at the Georgia Aquarium. They both dive deeper into breaking down and discussing some of the numerous stimuli and events that can affect motivation. The discussion finishes with their advice on how to productively and effectively use motivation as a tool in our training toolbox and not as a label. Stay tuned in for Mel and Alyse’s “Training Tales” that focus on how the fish they have worked with have taught them and changed their perspective. You can also learn more information about the 2025 ABMA annual conference by visiting www.abma.org For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Mel and Alyse email mpaynter@georgiaaquarium.org or AStitt@georgiaaquarium.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:25 Introduction to Mel Paynter and Alyse Stitt
8:15 Overview of Ocean Voyager habitat at Georgia Aquarium
10:15 Definition of Motivation
13:45 Definition of Motivating Operations
Affects on Motivation:
17:10 Food and Enrichment
24:00 Breeding/Courtship
34:00 Social Structure/Situations
39:50 Environment
43:35 Weather/Seasonality
45:00 Learning History
47:50 Animal’s physical ability to do something
48:50 Previous access to resources
50:35 Differences in motivation among individuals
59:25 Advice for using motivation productively and effectively, not as a label
1:05:35 “Training Tales”
61: Fading with Shane Gorbett, Philadelphia Zoo
This episode Shane Gorbett, Philadelphia Zoo and host of the podcast, discusses and breaks down fading. Shane first discusses examples of what fading looks like in practice and how we can apply the artful application of the science of behavior change in order to know when and how to fade. Shane also discusses the challenges of fading too quickly, too slowly, or not at all. Stay tuned in for Shane’s "Training Tale" about Nile crocodile crate training and the importance of paying attention to the communication that we provide to animals. Visit www.theabma.org for more information and for questions or suggestions about the podcast or to contact Shane, email abc@theabma.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
5:35 Introduction to Shane Gorbett
14:10 Definition of Fading and Examples
25:10 Fading to change a behavior’s cue.
28:00 How do we know when to fade?
31:50 What happens if we fade too quickly?
37:35 What happens if we fade too slowly?
39:05 What happens if we never fade at all?
42:55 “Training Tale”
60: Primary/Unconditioned & Secondary/Conditioned Reinforcers with Tricia Dees, Second Vice President of The ABMA
This episode Tricia Dees, the second vice president of the ABMA, continues on with the discussion from Episode 59 and goes deeper into primary/unconditioned and secondary/conditioned reinforcers. Tricia gives some common examples of primary/unconditioned and secondary/conditioned reinforcers but also talks about how individual preference plays a role in determining what is actually a reinforcer for each individual. The discussion then turns to why and how we can condition a reinforcer and the importance of watching the animal’s behavior to ensure that a conditioned reinforcer maintains its effectiveness. Stay tuned in for Tricia’s “Training Tale” about how she used learning from a presentation at an ABMA conference about zebra training with an otter. You can also learn more information about the 2025 ABMA annual conference by visiting www.abma.org For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Tricia email sponsorships@theabma.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
4:05 Introduction to Tricia Dees
6:10 Definition of a Primary/Unconditioned Reinforcer
8:50 Definition of a Secondary/Conditioned Reinforcer
11:50 Are primary and secondary reinforcers the same for every individual in a species?
19:25 Why would we condition a reinforcer?
22:00 Example of how to condition a reinforcer and how to tell if it is an effective reinforcer
30:45 How to tell if a conditioned reinforcer has lost its effectiveness as a reinforcer
36:30 “Training Tales”
59: Reinforcers and Punishers with Shawna Spencer, Coral World Ocean Park
Welcome back for the first episode of 2025! This episode Shawna Spencer, Coral World Ocean Park, dives deeper into breaking down reinforcers and punishers. This episode is full of examples and practical applications. Shawna starts with a brief introduction to primary and secondary reinforcers before listing examples of common reinforcers and punishers. The episode finishes with a discussion about how reinforcers can change over time and how to tell if something is no longer a reinforcer for an animal. Stay tuned in for Shawna’s two doggone great “Training Tales”, one featuring dog training in German. You can also learn more information about the 2025 ABMA annual conference by listening or visiting www.abma.org For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Shawna email spencers702@gmail.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:20 Introduction to Shawna Spencer
13:10 Information about the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas
19:50 Definitions of Reinforcers and Punishers
23:05 What can be a reinforcer or punisher
25:10 Definition of Primary Reinforcers
25:45 Definition and application of Secondary Reinforcers
34:10 Examples of common reinforcers
42:10 Examples of common punishers
52:35 If something is a reinforcer will it always be a reinforcer?
57:40 How to tell if something is no longer a reinforcer?
1:01:00 “Training Tales”
58: Superstitious Behavior with Jose Bello, Disney's Animals, Science and Environment
This episode Jose Bello, Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, discusses superstitious behavior. Jose starts with breaking down what it means for a behavior to be superstitious and examples of what that looks like in a practical application. Next, Jose educates about the “potential danger” in labeling behaviors as superstitious and how taking the blame away from the animal and placing it on us as the trainers, can give us a better understanding of what is accidentally reinforcing or punishing a superstitious behavior. The episode ends with a discussion and a reminder that all behavior has function and how that mindset can help trainers and teams have a cohesive understanding of superstitious behaviors. Stay tuned in for Jose’s o-fish-ally great "Training Tale" about a guest’s reaction to water kenneling fish. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Jose email Jose.Bello@disney.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
7:00 Introduction to Jose Bello
10:05 Definition and practical application of superstitious behavior
14:55 What does it look like if something is accidentally reinforced?
16:15 How to identify a superstitious behavior?
19:10 What is the potential “danger” in labeling a behavior as superstitious?
21:25 If there is a “potential danger”, should we still call behaviors superstitious?
23:50 How can having extra communication about superstitious behaviors arising from accidental reinforcement help with any labels that may come with the term?
25:50 Advice for recognizing that a behavior has been accidentally reinforced and isn’t just “something the animal always does”
28:05 Recognizing what is actually the reinforcer(s) or punisher(s) for a superstitious behavior?
29:30 All behavior has function
33:45 “Training Tales”
57: Training and Behavior in a Research Setting with Jonelle Mason, California National Primate Research Center - UC Davis
In a special ABMA Behavior Month 2024 episode, Jonelle Mason, California National Primate Research Center - UC Davis, discusses training and behavior in a research setting. Jonelle educates about the similarities and differences between training, cooperative care, and enrichment programs in a zoo compared to a research setting. Additionally, Jonelle talks about some of the unique challenges that arise and the future of behavior management within a research setting. Stay tuned in for Jonelle's "Training Tale" about training her pet corn snake to help with a regurgitation issue. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Jonelle email jmason@ucdavis.edu Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
4:35 Intro to Jonelle Mason
7:35 Comparison of behavior and training in a research vs zoo setting
16:45 Comparison of husbandry and cooperative care training
20:25 Considerations for research related training
29:10 Creating positive human-animal relationships
30:50 Enrichment programs in a research setting
33:30 Lessons from a research setting
35:10 The future of behavior management in a research setting
39:00 “Training Tale”
56: The Modern Zookeeper and the Importance of Redefining What We Do with Sam Meinke, Palm Beach Zoo
This episode Sam Meinke, Palm Beach Zoo, and podcast host, Shane Gorbett, discusses what it means to be a modern zookeeper. The definition of what a zookeeper is and does has drastically changed and is constantly evolving as we continue to progress animal care forward. Some other modern zookeepers were kind enough to share what being a modern zookeeper means to them so Sam and Shane dissect those answers as we redefine what it means to be a zookeeper. The discussion wraps up with the importance of redefining what a modern zookeeper is and does both for the knowledge of the public but also for those currently in the field or hoping to start their careers. Stay tuned in for Sam's "Training Tales" which involves a ground hornbill and a "long cheetah turd". For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Sam you can message him on Facebook or Instagram. Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:20 Introduction to Sam Meinke
4:40 Definition of a Zookeeper and redefining into a Modern Zookeeper
13:40 Using the past as a baseline to grow from and do better
20:20 A Modern Zookeeper…. Adapts to new information
22:50 Progressive, Use the artful application of scientific principles
23:45 Knows the individual animals
25:20 Creative, thinks outside the box for enriching the lives of animals
28:20 Responsible for providing each individual animal the best life possible
30:22 Creates a bond with the animals, knows each of their personalities
32:00 Eager to share their special connection with everyone
32:50 Strives to create positive connections in all interactions, changing the mindset from making to asking
36:46 Does research, looks to natural history of animals
38:15 Selfless, puts the animals’ needs above their own, open to feedback
39:20 Prioritizes behavioral management as a necessity
41:30 Focuses on animal wellbeing
43:10 Importance of redefining the modern zookeeper
45:40 Advice on changing the mindset of a team into striving to be modern zookeeprs
49:00 “Training Tales”
55: A Free Operant Approach to Behavior Management with Rick Hester, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & BehaviorWorks
This episode Rick Hester, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and BehaviorWorks, discusses a free operant approach to behavior management. Rick starts with explaining the practical application of free operant behavior and, in order to get the full scope, also discusses discrete trial training and the relationship between the two. Breaking down some of the science, Rick educates about Lindsley's (1996) Four Free Operant Freedoms and the considerations for providing and maintaining a free operant environment (depletion, satiation, and dosage of resources). Rick finishes the episode with giving advice on how to start curating free operant environments by celebrating each approximation. Stay tuned in for a "dam" great "Training Tale" about creating a free operant environment for beavers using the sound of running water. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Rick email rph@behaviorworks.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
6:40 Definition and application of “Free Operant”
10:05 Definition and application of Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
14:10 Connecting the dots between environmental enrichment and free operant principles
16:55 The Freedom to Present Stimuli
17:20 The Freedom to Repeat Responses Many Times to Each Signal
17:50 The Freedom to Form Responses
18:20 The Freedom to Slow or Speed Responses
19:15 Considerations for providing and maintaining a free operant environment
20:40 Resource Depletion
23:20 Satiation of Resources
24:50 Dosage of Resources
28:00 Advice for Getting Team Buy-In; Using Approximations
35:35 The balance between free operant and discrete trial training
39:50 “Training Tales”
54: The Behaviors of Effectively Giving and Receiving Feedback with Scott Trauger, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the human side of the animal care field. In this episode Scott Trauger, Natural Encounters, Inc., dives deeper into a discussion centered around his presentation at the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference titled "Expanding Our Feedback Loop: Evolving the Way that We Give Feedback to Our Peers". Scott discusses the different types of feedback and considerations to think about in order to effectively give specific and honest, but also kind, feedback. Scott also discusses the thought of also giving choice and... control to people while providing feedback. Stay tuned in for a "Training Tale" about how Scott used his tree climbing skills and relationship to rescue a pied crow. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Scott contact him on the ABMA Community or email michael.scott.trauger@gmail.com If you are an ABMA member you can watch Scott's presentation on animalprofessional.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:10 Introduction to Scott Trauger
6:05 “Expanding Our Feedback Loop: Evolving the Ways we Give Feedback to Our Peers”
7:55 Using the word “Feedback” vs “Criticism”
12:05 Different Types of Feedback
18:40 Importance of Individual Relationships
23:30 Being honest and specific but also kind
27:15 Reinforcing the behaviors/responses you want to see happen again
29:30 Recapping or following up after feedback
31:15 Starting with heart and the human, not evidence
35:10 Giving choice and… control to people
43:00 “Training Tales”
53: Practical Applications of Choice and... Control" with Tegan Noel, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
This episode we are joined by Tegan Noel, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, to discuss some practical applications and examples of providing choice and... control. This episode is a continuation of Episode 50 where Ken Ramirez broke down the science of choice and... control. The episode starts with Tegan commenting how the focus of those two topics have changed and shaped behavior in recent years. Additionally, she educates about what it means to remove "forced" choice and providing control through the use of encouraging animals to say now. Tegan gives thoughtful examples of providing choice and... control and why it is not only important for animal care professionals to have an understanding but also the public. Stay tuned in for Tegan's interesting "Training Tale" about a pygmy falcon who decided to create an awkward ending to a show. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Tegan you can email tnoel@sdzwa.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:45 Introduction to Teagan Noel
5:40 How has the focus on choice and control evolved and changed the way we care for animals?
11:30 Giving animals control and encouraging animals to “say no” while still receiving active participation
16:00 Practical examples of providing choice and control: Squirrel Monkeys
28:35 Practical example: Control over putting on a harness (coati, wombat)
31:10 Giving more control and removing “forced” choice
40:35 Importance of providing choice and control from the view of the pubic
49:40 Advice for starting the process of providing more control
54:35 “Training Tales”
52: Distant Antecedents: Navigating the Role They Play in Behavior with Chris Jenkins, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode we are joined once again by Chris Jenkins of Natural Encounters, Inc. in order to dive deeper into Antecedents, specially looking at Distant Antecedents and navigating the role they play in behavior. This episode is a continuation of Episode 6 where Chris broke down the fundamentals of Antecedents. The episode starts with defining the difference between immediate and distant antecedents and then shifts to the slippery slope that is labeling behavior using distant antecedents as the reason. Chris educates about how behavior is influenced by a myriad of environmental conditions and gives advice on how to take away the subjectivity of a distant antecedent and instead listen to what the animal and their behavior is telling us. Stay tuned in for Chris's interesting "Training Tale" about a double mouth open with a tapir! Additionally check out "The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc.", a like-minded podcast hosted by Chris and Ari Bailey! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Chris you can find his contact information on the Natural Encounters, Inc. website. Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:10 Introduction to Chris Jenkins
7:10 Immediate vs Distant Antecedents
13:20 Antecedents affecting motivation and how our view of them can affect behavior
15:50 Not letting our “arrogance” create roadblocks or excuses for behavior
21:30 Using antecedents to inform decisions while not labeling
26:25 Past consequences become future antecedents
33:00 Using behavioral observations vs our subjective thoughts
37:15 Recognizing that behavior is influenced by more than one condition
41:10 Advice for encouraging others to not place “blame” on distant antecedents
48:55 Critical role us as the human trainers play in behavior
51:50 “Training Tales”
51: The Behaviors of Successfully Implementing Change with Justin Garner, The Animal Behavior Management Alliance
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the human side of the animal care field. In this episode Justin Garner, Committee Chair for The ABMA, helps to give advice on how to successfully implement change. The discussion begins with ideas and advice on communicating ideas to others and how to then put those ideas into action. Justin and Shane also talk through ideas to overcome some of the common "roadblocks" to successfully implementing change including not enough time, we've always done it this way, and a lack of resources. Stay tuned in for a "Training Tale" about a ground hornbill's love for popcorn and how that almost prevented a new idea from coming to fruition. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Justin contact him on the ABMA Community or email justingarner80@gmail.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:10 Introduction to Justin Garner
4:35 Realistically starting to make change
13:45 Putting the focus on the animals and off yourself
18:50 Leading by example
28:20 Building relationships with your teammates
34:25 Potential Roadblock: “We don’t have enough time for this change”
41:20 Potential Roadblock: “This is what we have always done”
54:40 Potential Roadblock: “Lack of resources”
1:00:00 Be real, show your passions
1:03:20 Not being afraid to fail
1:06:55 Training Tales
50: Choice and ... Control with Ken Ramirez, Karen Pryor Clicker Training
3:55 Introduction to Ken Rameriz
12:05 Introduction to choice and... control
13:45 Definition and practical application of Choice
17:10 Definition and practical application of Control
29:15 Giving animals control while still getting to the yes
37:00 Why are these two terms connected
48:21 Practical example of control
52:10 Can an animal have control but not choice?
59:10 How choice and ... control fit into welfare and future advancements
1:05:40 Advice on how to start using training and behavior to give animals choice and... control
1:08:10 "Training Tales"
49: Stimulus Control with Sandy Jabas, First VP of The ABMA
This episode Sandy Jabas, The First VP of The ABMA, discusses what it means for a behavior to be under stimulus control. Sandy educates about how to tell if a behavior is under stimulus control and also the importance of stimulus control in our training. Sandy also teases the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas hosted by Moody Gardens! Stay tuned in for three "Training Tales" about a funny mishap when shifting dolphins, a dolphin tail fluke splash gone wrong, and interesting research about dolphin dive reflex. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Sandy you can email firstvp@theabma.org. Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:30 Intro to Sandy Jabas
5:50 Intro to the 2025 Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas
9:25 Definition of Stimulus Control
11:40 Practical Examples of Stimulus Control
15:20 How to tell if a behavior is under stimulus control?
23:25 Advice for challenges with training a behavior to be under stimulus control.
27:15 “Training Tales”
48: Recap of the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee with Benjamin Fainsod, Dr. Cathy Mingee, Cam Luna, and Chandelle Cotter
This episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2024 ABMA annual conference (April 15-19 2024) hosted by the Nashville Zoo. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them.
Day 1: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo & The Animal Behavior Community (carnivores@jerusalemzoo.org)
Day 2: Dr. Cathy Mingee, North Carolina Zoo (cathy.mingee@nczoo.org)
Day 3: Cam Luna, Nashville Zoo (cluna@nashvillezoo.org)
Day 4: Chandelle Cotter, Bird Treatment and Learning Center (chandelle_cotter@birdtlc.org)
If you are an ABMA member be sure to log in to Animalprofessional.com to watch most of the presentations and panels from the 2024 conference. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org. Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
7:00 Recap of Monday with Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo & The Animal Behavior Community
18:45 Recap of Tuesday with Cathy Mingee, North Carolina Zoo
35:45 Recap of Thursday with Cam Luna, Nashville Zoo
45:05 Recap of Friday with Chandelle Cotter, Bird Treatment and Learning Center
47: Providing Purposeful Lives to Animals with Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo Chicago
This episode Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo Chicago and one of the founders of The ABMA, discusses how to use behavioral goals to provide purposeful lives to animals. Tim starts by giving a little history to the founding of The ABMA and then jumps into discussing why behavior is an all encompassing word. If you were at the 2024 ABMA annual conference in Nashville or if you are an ABMA member and watch Tim's environmental enrichment workshop on animalprofessional.com, this podcast episode is a great companion to his presentation. Tim educates about shifting our mindset in order to provide purposeful lives to animals. Taking ourselves away from providers and into a facilitator role, allowing animals to do the jobs that they do best! Tim also speaks to what it means to teach animals to be good learners instead of teaching animals "good" lessons and how we can all successfully navigate this shift in thinking. Stay tuned in for Tim's "Training Tale" about how he started thinking about the correlation between guest applause and the behaviors of the animal. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Tim you can email tim.sullivan@czs.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:30 Introduction to Tim Sullivan
9:15 History on the founding of The ABMA
12:50 Why is behavior an all encompassing word for training, enrichment, etc.?
16:20 What does it mean to “Provide Purposeful Lives” to animals?
23:25 Teaching animals how to interact with an enrichment opportunity/do a novel behavior in their free time?
28:05 Getting started with changing the mindset
33:50 Shift in enrichment from items to experiences/opportunities
37:20 Teaching animals to be good learners, not teaching good lessons
48:05 “Training Tales”
46: From Trauma to Trust: Building Relationships using Operant Conditioning with Sarah van Herpt, Animals Asia - Vietnam
This episode Sarah van Herpt, Animals Asia - Vietnam, discusses relationship and trust building with animals who previously lived in adverse and traumatic environments. Animals Asia rescues bears from the bear bile industry so Sarah is able to give practical examples of how they help the rescued bears move from trauma to trust. Sarah educates about desensitization and different techniques used to build trust such as temporarily using negative reinforcement with animals where the best reinforcer is distance and space. Sarah also talks about how to build trust back quickly after a situation that may require some of that trust to be broken. l Stay tuned in for a "Training Tale" about giving the power of consent and control back to rescued bears! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org To reach Sarah email svanherpt@animalsasia.org and to learn more about Animals Asia visit their website at https://www.animalsasia.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
3:00 Introduction to Sarah van Herpt and Animals Asia
9:00 Starting to build a trusting relationship with an animal from a previously aversive situation
16:00 Desensitization
21:10 Negative Reinforcement as a temporary tool
24:05 Relationship building outside of a “formal” training session
28:40 Working with animals with low trust in the “trust account”
31:55 Building relationships back up after doing something that takes away some trust (example: necessary medical procedure)
36:05 Overcoming setbacks with animals that previously had traumatic experiences
37:30 “Training Tale”
45: Behavior Management in an Aquatic Setting - A Collaboration with AAZK for Spotlight on Aquariums Week with Sarah Snider Keys, AAZK, and Sarah (SK) Ivkovich, Dolphin Research Center
This episode is a collaboration with AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers) for their "Spotlight on Aquariums Week". The guests for this episode are Sarah Snider-Keys from the Board of Directors of AAZK and Sarah (SK) Ivkovich from The Dolphin Research Center (DRC) as they discuss behavior management in an aquatic setting. Sarah and SK discuss some of the differences and challenges of working with purely aquatic species and some of the creative solutions and successes that come from an aquatic setting. This episode also touches on when and how to start training baby animals and training animals in a social group. Stay tuned in for a "Training Tale" about how a dolphin learned how to soar not from a trainer's approximations, but by watching and learning from another dolphin. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org or visit our website https://www.theabma.org To reach Sarah Snider- Keys email sarah.snider@aazk.org and to learn more about AAZK visit their website https://aazk.org To reach Sarah Ivkovich email sarah.ivkovich@dolphins.org Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:50 Intro to Sarah Snider-Keys and SK Ivkovich4:25 Information about AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers)
6:55 Spotlight on Aquariums Week
10:20 Planning and implementing training in an aquatic setting
15:05 Specific behaviors/techniques that are unique to purely aquatic species
19:00 Advantages and challenges with habitats that are in the public view
25:20 Training baby animals before food is a reinforcer/When should you start training?
33:15 Social animals, group vs individual animal criteria
38:50 Enrichment opportunities in an aquatic setting
46:10 Advice for starting behavior programs with aquatic species
52:30 “Training Tales”
44: How to Start a Behavior Program with Cassie Malina, Awesome Animal Solutions
This episode Cassie Malina, Awesome Animal Solutions, discusses a topic that has been requested by multiple listeners: How to start a behavior program! Cassie starts by detailing what a behavior program could entail, where to start, and how to approach leadership and your team about the process. Cassie also discusses all of the benefits of starting a behavior program to both animal and human wellness. Stay tuned in for two "Training Tales" from Cassie! The first involves a crowned crane learning the importance of an elevator and the second is a unique way in which a hyacinth macaw learned a voluntary towel behavior. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org To reach Cassie email awesomeanimalsolutions@gmail.com or visit her website https://www.awesomeanimalsolutions-cassiemalina.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
1:35 Information about the 2024 Annual Conference
4:30 Introduction to Cassie Malina
11:05 What does a “Behavior Program” entail?
15:20 Where to start when beginning a behavior program?
18:55 Approaching leadership about starting a behavior program
24:20 How to prepare and coach your team to prepare for starting a program?
29:30 Behaviors or concepts to start with the animals in the new program?
33:45 Advice on building relationships with animals who previously didn’t have a relationship
39:40 Focusing a behavior plan on animals/species that previously didn’t have one
42:30 Reinforcing your teammates and recognizing the “wins”
45:30 How to balance the added time commitment of a behavior program
49:55 “Training Tales”
43: The Importance of Body Language While Training with Heather Samper, Moody Gardens and The ABMA
This episode Heather Samper, Moody Gardens and “All Things ABMA”, discusses the importance of body language while training. The first part of the episode focuses on learning to read an animal learner’s body language, how to implement that into your sessions, and the benefits of being a keen listener of body language. The second portion of the episode focuses on why it is so vital for us as trainers to be cognizant of our own body language. Stay tuned in for two "Training Tales" from Heather! The first is a hilarious story involving a coati and Russian secret service agents (yes, you read that correctly) and the second is an in depth look into search and rescue with Heather’s beagle. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org To reach Heather about ABMA related discussions email website@theabma.org or theabma@theabma.org and for items regarding MyTrainingStore.com email info@mytrainingstore.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:40 Introduction to Heather Samper
11:35 Why is it important to learn how to read an animal’s body language?
15:50 Implementing the skill of reading body language into training sessions
26:00 Under or Over Threshold
28:25 Universal body language “fundamentals”
37:05 Calm Baseline
41:00 Reinforcing for body language and the benefits
49:25 Importance of the trainer’s body language
1:00:00 “Training Tales”
42: The 10 Modern Principles of Shaping with Kelli Meyers, ZooTampa at Lowry Park
This episode Kelli Meyers, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, discusses The 10 Modern Principles of Shaping as created by Karen Pryor and how they have evolved from "The 10 Laws of Shaping". Kelli breaks down each principle and gives advice on how to best implement and think about each of the principles. The 10 principles can be found below in the timestamps for this episode. Stay tuned in for Kelli's "Training Tale" about how she had to get really creative with her body positioning (hint: it included floating in the middle of the habitat) to help teach a sea lion a "clapping" behavior. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Kelli you can email kelligolota@gmail.com Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
1:40 Introduction to Kelli Meyers
4:30 Introduction to the 10 modern principles of shaping
6:50 Principle 1: Be prepared before you start
10:35 Principle 2: Ensure success at each step
12:25 Principle 3: Train one criterion at a time
14:10 Principle 4: Relax criteria when something changes
15:40 Principle 5: If one door close, find another
18:55 Principle 6: Keep training sessions continuous
20:20 Principle 7: Go back to “kindergarten” if necessary, take a step back and then move forward
21:45 Principle 8: Keep your attention on your learner
25:50 Principle 9: Stay ahead of your learner
26:45 Principle 10: Quit while you’re ahead
33:20 “Training Tales”
41: Human Perception on Animal Intelligence and Its Effect on Behavior, Esther Verhoeven
This episode Esther Verhoeven discusses the human perception of animal intelligence (both from the point of view of an animal care professional and a guest) and how that effects behavior. The conversation starts with Esther discussing how behaviorists should view animal intelligence so that it doesn't create excuses or affect the way we manage the animals in our care. Esther finishes the discussion by commenting on educating guests about animal intelligence and the importance of the language that we use when talking to and about animals. Stay tuned in for Esther's "Training Tale" as she dives into discussing how dolphins perceived the idea of a behavior differently during scuba diving training sessions For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Esther you can find her on all major social medias (Estherv_n). Link to Esther's Ted Talk:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCqOCQ4J9qc Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
2:50 Introduction to Esther Verhoeven
6:00 How behaviorists/trainers should be viewing animal intelligence?
10:15 Responses to questions about animals being “more” or “less” intelligent than others
13:15 All animals have the ability to learn and, thus, can be trained
15:35 Using labels or intelligence as an excuse for not training
18:10 Animals are experts in human body language
19:05 The dangers of thinking for animals in our care
23:20 Educating the public about animal intelligence
26:05 Why our “chosen language” in how we talk to and talk about animals is important
28:45 “Training Tales”
40: The Role of Self-Regulation in Animal Wellbeing
This episode Gabby Harris, uShake Sea World, discusses an article that she wrote for "Engage", the quarterly behavior publication of The ABMA. The article is titled "Welfare Considerations for Behavior Management of Animals in Human-Care: The Role of Self Regulation”. Gabby educates about why self-regulation can affect an animal's wellbeing and how we can provide opportunities for self-regulation to animals. Stay tuned in for two "Training Tales" each focusing on learning moments with dolphins! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Gabby email gabby@seaworld.org.za or visit her website: www.touchinganimalsouls.blogspot.com To read the article in "Engage": engage Let's talk some training and banter about behavior!
4:40 Introduction to Gabby Harris
12:30 Summary of “Engage” article
15:45 Mental wellbeing of animals
18:25 Definition of Self-Regulation
22:40 Providing opportunities for self-regulation
42:25 Optimism of animals
43:50 “Training Tales”
39: Focusing on the Individual vs the Group or Species with Kyle Banton-Jones, Wild Enrichment
This episode Kyle Banton-Jones, Wild Enrichment, discusses the importance of focusing on the individual vs the group or species in regards to behavioral husbandry. This episode was recorded in collaboration with Kyle's podcast and is a compliment to episode 53 of the Wild Enrichment Podcast, so be sure to check out here: https://wildenrichment.podbean.com In continuation from that episode, Kyle talks about the evolution of enrichment and advancing behavioral husbandry of under-represented species. Additionally, Kyle discusses an article that he wrote, "Behavioral Husbandry for the Individual", and gives considerations for focusing on both the species/group while also ensuring that individual animal's needs are met. Stay tuned in for Kyle's "Training Tale" about how a macaw gave him a lightbulb moment about communicating with animals while training . For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Kyle email kyle@wildenrichment.com or contact any of Wild Enrichment's social channels. To learn more about Wild Enrichment, read the article that this episode discusses, and utilize their resources visit: https://wildenrichment.com Let's talk some training!
6:00 Introduction to Kyle Banton-Jones and Wild Enrichment
10:50 How the word “enrichment” has evolved and changed
13:45 Advancing behavioral husbandry in “under-represented” species
20:20 Behavioral Husbandry for the Individual
23:45 Considerations from the viewpoint of the species
28:40 Considerations from the viewpoint of the individual
31:45 Providing opportunities for the group while also providing opportunities for the individual
34:15 Focusing on one individual’s enrichment goals within a group
38:10 The importance of applicable data collection
39:30 “Training Tales”
38: Prompts - Providing Additional Information with Dani Larson, Southwick's Zoo
This episode Dani Larson, Southwick's Zoo, discusses prompts and how they provide additional information to animal learners. Dani gives great examples of prompts and discusses the difference between a prompt and a discriminative stimulus. Additionally, Dani educates about the importance of fading prompts, but also how to utilize prompts when a behavior breakdown. Stay tuned in for a wild "Training Tale" about how Dani used a soup spoon to teach her dog "Paw". For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Dani contact her on Instagram, @danipoirier, or email dani@southwickszoo.com Let's talk some training!
5:55 Introduction to Dani Larson
11:25 Definition of a Prompt
13:40 Examples of prompts
18:35 The difference between a prompt and a discriminative stimulus (cue)
21:30 Fading out prompts
29:15 How to fade out a prompt
38:40 How to utilize a prompt when a behavior breaks down
43:25 “Training Tales”
37: The Behaviors of Allyship with Meghan Holst, co-founder of MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science)
This episode Meghan Holst, one of the co-founders of MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science), adds another addition to "The Behaviors of..." series by discussing the behaviors of allyship and giving insight in to MIAZS as an organization. Meghan educates about what allyship is and ways in which everyone can be involved in being an ally. Meghan also talks about how to professionally and effectively bring up social justice issues in a workplace and why human behavior is just as important as animal behavior. "The healthier and supported humans are, the healthier and supported the animals are." Stay tuned for Meghan's "Training Tale" about conditioning an electrical signal bridge for sharks. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Meghan email executivedirector@miasz.org. Also, check out all of the free, informational resources offered by MIAZS on their website. https://www.miazs.org Let's talk some training!
3:35 Introduction to Meghan Holst
8:30 All about MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Sciences)
17:30 How to get involved and support MIAZS
19:35 What is Allyship?
23:00 Behaviors of being an ally
28:15 How to bring up social justice issues in the workplace
33:20 Why is human behavior just as important as animal behavior
38:40 “Training Tales”
36: Introduction to Welfare Assessments with Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts
This episode special guest, Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts, continues the welfare discussion from episode 35 with a focus on introducing the topic of Welfare Assessments. Sabrina discusses a holistic approach to welfare and the necessity of observational, research-focused data as opposed to emotional thinking in welfare assessments. Sabrina also explains the difference between output-based and input-based welfare assessments. The episode ends with a conversation about constant welfare analysis and effective assessments models. Stay tuned for Sabrina's "Training Tale" about reinforcing a dolphin for saying "no" and not coming to her when asked. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Sabrina contact her on the AnimalConcepts website https://www.animalconcepts.eu/, LinkedIn, or the AnimalConcepts social channels. Also, check out all of the free, informational resources offered by AnimalConcepts on their website. Let's talk some training!
4:20 Welfare through observational, not emotional data
10:15 The way that we are feeling about something, doesn’t mean that the animal is feeling the same
13:45 A holistic approach to welfare
20:00 Outputs vs Inputs
25:00 Difference between output-based and input-based welfare assessment
30:40 The continued learning of welfare assessments
38:45 What makes for an effective welfare assessment model
41:35 “Training Tales”
35: Introduction to Welfare Science with Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts
This episode concludes Behavior Month 2023 with special guest, Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts, to discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: Welfare Around the World. This episode serves as the podcast's introduction to welfare with plans for future episodes to dive deeper into the science of welfare. Sabrina explains what welfare science is and the different lenses in which we can view animal welfare. Sabrina also discusses the Five Domains Model and the importance of affective states to animal welfare. Stay tuned for Sabrina's powerful "Training Tale" about a monkey taking his choices into his own hands. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Sabrina contact her on the AnimalConcepts website https://www.animalconcepts.eu/, LinkedIn, or the AnimalConcepts social channels. Also, check out all of the free, informational resources offered by AnimalConcepts on their website. Let's talk some training!
5:20 Introduction to Sabrina Brando
11:40 Definitions of welfare from AZA and EAZA
12:35 Welfare in a practical and applicable sense
18:00 Focusing on the individuals
23:15 The Five Domains of Welfare Science
38:30 What are affective states?
49:15 “Training Tales”
34: The Human-Animal Connection - Evaluating Our Relationships with Chris Jenkins, Marni Wood, and Justin Garner, The ABMA Board of Directors
This episode continues the learning of Behavior Month 2023 with special guests from The ABMA Board of Directors; Chris Jenkins, Marni Wood, and Justin Garner. The panel of guests discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: The Human-Animal Connection. The panel talks about the importance of having strong, trusting relationships with animals and tackles the questions: how do we evaluate our relationships with animals and what makes for a "good" or a "bad" relationship? The panel also offers advice on how to grow a relationship through changing our own actions. Stayed tuned for a "Training Tale" from podcast host, Shane, about how his relationship with a red river hog paid off during a unique situation. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach any of our panel of guests you can email directorchris@theabma.org, directormarni@theabma.org, and directorjustin@theabma.org Let's talk some training!
4:35 Introduction to Chris Jenkins, Justin Garner, and Marni Wood
8:40 Human-Animal Relationships from an academic lens
10:25 Building human-animal relationships in a modern setting
16:25 What defines/how do you measure a “good” relationship
20:15 What would cause you to define a relationship as “bad”
27:35 When and when not to take away from your trust account
31:40 If the relationship needs improved, how do we strengthen it
35:25 What can we, the human learner, change in our behavior
41:15 Reading animal body language
43:50 Advice for building a stronger, better relationship
51:00 The future role of human-animal relationships in welfare science
52:50 “Training Tales”
33: The Evolution of Enrichment with Clarie Santiago & Hunter Peck, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode continues the learning of Behavior Month 2023 with special guests Clarie Santiago and Hunter Peck from Natural Encounters, Inc. who discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: The Evolution of Enrichment. This is also an exciting episode for the fact that this was a live, in-person recording at the NEI Ranch because NEI graciously hosted The ABMA's 2023 midyear meeting! In this episode our guests discuss the evolution of enrichment, both on a holistic level and within a specific team or facility. Clarie and Hunter also contemplate the shift of enrichment towards behavior-based and how training, enrichment, and behavior are not mutually exclusive, but in fact all related. Stayed tuned for two "Training Tales" this episode! Clarie talks about a daring flight from a black kite and Hunter explains how a pigeon named Blade learned to fly. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Clarie and Hunter you can message them on Facebook. Let's talk some training!
8:15 Introduction to Clarie Santiago and Hunter Peck
14:15 The evolution of enrichment
16:20 The evolution of enrichment on a team/in a facility
21:50 Behavior, enrichment, and training - Not mutually exclusive topics
29:10 Shifting the focus towards behavior and away from interactions
31:25 Enrichment as a tool to decrease “undesirable” behaviors
38:05 Can something that the animal “doesn’t like” still be considered successful enrichment?
41:50 Focusing on enrichment for a species as a whole and at an individual level
45:30 Hunter and Clarie’s enrichment opportunities that they are excited to implement in the future
47:15 “Training Tales”
32: Cooperative Care - Asking Animals to Participate with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo Group
This episode kicks off Behavior Month 2023 and we are joined once again by special guest, Wouter Stellaard from Behavior 360 and The Kuzo Group, to discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: Cooperative Care. Wouter discusses what it means for animals to participate in cooperative care and the element of empowering animals to participate and giving them the voice to say yes or no. Wouter also offers advice on times where behavior is needed in a timely manner. To wrap up the conversation, Wouter talks about the importance of cooperative care in a modern zoo and showing that in action to guests. Behavior bird brainiacs (that will make sense after you listen to this episode) will be excited for Wouter's "Training Tales" about a short-billed corella and a beautiful, boisterous black-breasted buzzard! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Wouter contact him on his website behavior360.com Let's talk some training!
2:15 Information about Behavior Month 2023
3:50 Introduction to Wouter Stellaard
11:05 What does Cooperative Care look like in practice?
13:55 Giving animals the ability to say yes or no
18:55 How can we tell if a behavior is truly voluntary? Is there anything that is truly voluntary?
24:55 What is the difference between an operant learning strategy and “distracted” feeding in terms of cooperative care?
31:20 When medical diagnostics/information are needed in a timely manner
36:50 The shift in moving away from the word “husbandry” and to “cooperative care”
40:00 Effectively communicating to the public about the role cooperative care plays in a modern zoo
44:40 How cooperative care can improve welfare
49:10 “Training Tales”
31: The Podcast in Review - Part Two - Discussions on Human Care, Molding, Criteria, and Labels with Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner
The panel of guests from the previous episode returns to finish to answer some of the questions that our listeners have submitted concerning the previous 29 episodes. Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner all join the podcast again to answer and discuss a wide range of questions including: the difference between capturing and molding, what it means for the criteria of a behavior to have a "range", how to professionally discuss animals living in human care, and how to educate about labels and constructs. Stayed tuned in for Justin's "Training Tale" about how a cheetah discovered a unique way to generalize a behavior. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org Let's talk some training!
1:05 Introduction to Behavior Month 2023
5:35 Introduction to Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner
9:15 If you manipulate an animal and then they do a behavior, is that capturing or molding?
21:30 Can you explain more in depth what you mean by the criteria of a behavior having a “range”?
35:25 What are professional ways to educate someone who approaches you who is against having animals in human care (especially marine mammals)?
1:05:00 How do you politely guide others towards refraining from labeling animals (both as a professional and with guests)?
1:22:05 “Training Tales”
30: Classical and Operant and Schedules... Oh My! The Podcast in Review - Part One with Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, & Justin Garner
As this is the 30th episode of the podcast we have assembled a panel of guests to answer some of the questions that our listeners have submitted concerning the previous 29 episodes. Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner all join the podcast again to answer and discuss a wide range of questions including: differences between classical and operant conditioning, variable schedules, reinforcement placement, negative reinforcement, and the start of building relationships with an animal. This podcast recording was 3 hours long, so this panel will be back again next episode to finish answering questions. In addition, we ran out of time for a "Training Tale" from the guests so host, Shane, shares a "Training Tale" in honor of the life of Bodega the sea lion that involves a forklift malfunction. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org Let's talk some training!
6:30 Introduction to Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, & Justin Garner
11:05 Can you explain the difference between operant and classical conditioning?
18:05 If you have an animal that is afraid to approach you for reinforcement, how could you use operant conditioning to help the animal be more comfortable approaching you and to make training sessions reinforcing rather than potentially aversive?
29:25 Does Negative Reinforcement have to include removing something that is aversive to the animal?
36:10 If we are bridging every behavior, how can we really be using variable reinforcement, even if we are only following up with reinforcement variably?
44:35 What would constitute something as being a baiting strategy vs reinforcement placement?
56:30 “Training Tales”
29: The Behaviors of a Unified, Supportive Team - Part One with Dave O'Connell & Kyle Alexander, Bearizona
This episode kicks off a brand new, reoccurring series on the podcast called "The Behaviors of..." which will dive into the human side of the animal care field. Starting this series off is Dave O'Connell and Kyle Alexander, Bearizona, discussing the behaviors of a unified, supportive team. Dave and Kyle talk about what team behaviors have helped to create a healthy, positive work culture at Bearizona and the importance of focusing not just on the animals, but also the people. Dave and Kyle also discuss the benefits of celebrating everyone's uniqueness, changing a culture from competitive to collaborative, creating a "circle of reinforcement" in a team, and building up trust accounts amongst coworkers and leadership. Stay tuned in for Kyle's "Training Tale" about a jaguar and, in the spirit of the episode, he also talks about some the awesome training of others at Bearizona. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Dave contact dave@bearizona.com and to reach Kyle contact keepers@bearizona.com Let's talk some training!
4:50 Intro to Dave O’Connell and Kyle Alexander
7:20 Behaviors of a Unified, Supportive Team
10:30 Celebrating everyone’s uniqueness
14:30 How to ask if you can try something new
16:50 Creating a culture of healthy accountability
22:25 Cultivating a “circle of reinforcement” where everyone gives credit and celebrates their coworkers successes
25:55 Changing the culture from competitive to collaborative
32:35 We are here for the animals and for the people
36:05 Information about Behavior Month 2023
39:40 Building up trust accounts with coworkers and leadership
48:35 Everyone on a team can be a leader
1:02:50 “Training Tale”
28: Criteria: Defining the Behavior with Becky Wolf, San Diego Zoo
This episode Becky Wolf, San Diego Zoo, discusses criteria as it pertains to defining behaviors while training. Becky gives examples and a breakdown of the four aspects of a behavior that can be reinforced: topography, duration, frequency, and intensity. The episode ends with a discussion on why it is so important to both the animals, the individual trainer, and a team that a behavior has clear, defined criteria. Stay tuned in for a special treat as Becky shares three "Training Tales" including a unique ostrich recall, a jumping lion, and a cheetah that made special connections with guests. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Becky contact bwolf@sdzwa.org Let's talk some training!
3:25: Intro to Becky Wolf
6:00 Definition of Criteria
6:30 Example of a behavior’s criteria in practice
8:45 Topography
12:30 Duration
16:00 Frequency
17:25 Intensity
18:45 Can a behavior’s criteria have multiple aspects?
20:20 Can a behavior have a lower and upper range of criteria?
22:20 Latency
24:55 When a behavior’s criteria isn’t met
29:00 Why is it important to the animal that we have clear, defined criteria?
31:00 Why is it important to a trainer/team that we have clear, defined criteria?
35:05 “Training Tales”
27: The Many Applications of Target Training with Grace Sullivan, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This episode Grace Sullivan, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , discusses another one of the most fundamental yet powerful training tools: Targets. There are so many applications for target training and Grace breaks down some of the practical applications of targets and how this "simple" behavior can enhance dialogue and give animals' control in their management. This episode is full of tons of practical examples to help get started with target training and then transition that behavior to more complex ones. Stay tuned in for Grace's "Training Tale" about a collaborative win that lead to a really unique target behavior for some ring-tailed lemurs! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Grace contact gsullivan@cmzoo.org Let's talk some training!
- 3:00 Intro to Grace Sullivan
- 7:25 Definition and practical application of targets
- 10:40 Training a target behavior
- 18:40 Why target training is a great, early fundamental behavior for novel learners
- 23:00 Why is target training important?
- 28:35 Replacing a baiting strategy with target training
- 30:40 Training duration of a target behavior
- 39:15 Using target training to train more complex behaviors
- 42:55 Training targets to other body parts
- 46:10 Distal targets
- 51:50 "Training Tales"
26: Creating and Implementing a Training Plan with Christina Lavallee, Zoo Atlanta
This episode Christina Lavallee, Zoo Atlanta and ABMA Board of Directors, discusses thoughts and ideas for creating, writing, and implementing a Training Plan. There is no one way to write a Training Plan and what works for everyone may be different, however, Christina gives ideas on what can be included in a Training Plan, how to get started, and how to give and receive feedback on Training Plans. Additionally, she talks in depth about the need to be flexible while implementing a Training Plan. Stay tuned for Christina’s "Training Tale" with a famous screaming-hairy armadillo! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org. To reach Christina email clavallee@zooatlanta.org For more information about the IATCB scholarship visit this link: https://www.iatcb.org/newhome Let's talk some training!
2:55 Introduction to Christina Lavallee
4:00 What is a Training Plan?
4:55 Why is it helpful to write a Training Plan?
8:45 Giving and receiving feedback on a Training Plan
12:10 Why is it important to be flexible when implementing a Training Plan?
21:30 Ideas that can be included in a Training Plan
28:10 How to start writing a Training Plan
33:25 Record keeping
34:40 “Training Tale”
37:55 Information on IATCB
25: Discriminative Stimulus/Cues with Daisy Barrett, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
This episode Daisy Barrett, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium in Australia, discusses the science and application behind the Discriminative Stimulus (Sd)/Cues. Daisy walks through the many different types of Sds, when and how to introduce a cue, and how to adapt Sds as an animal ages. Stay tuned to hear about Daisy and Shane's favorite cues and for Daisy's "Training Tale" with little blue penguins! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org. To reach Daisy, you can message her on her social media channels and check out her new podcast, "Trainer Talks and Tails" focusing on all things animal training and conservation! Let's talk some training!
- 5:35 Introduction to Daisy Barrett
- 10:00 Definition of Sd (Discriminative Stimulus)/Cues
- 11:25 Why is it called a Discriminative Stimulus?
- 12:00 Types of Sds/Cues
- 19:45 What needs to be true for something to be a Sd/cue?
- 22:10 How and when to introduce the Sd/cue?
- 24:10 Can a behavior have multiple Sd/cues?
- 27:20 How to tell if an Sd/cue is actually conditioned?
- 29:35 Adapting Sd/cues for aging animals
- 36:05 Training Tales
- 37:55 Information about “Trainer Talks and Tails” Podcast
24: The Intersection of Behavior, Enrichment, and Training with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo
This episode is the second of our two part dive into enrichment. Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo and President Elect of The ABMA, joins the podcast again to talk about the connection between behavior, enrichment, and training. Elly discusses training as enrichment, how training can help an enrichment program, and creating enriched environments and lives for animals. Stay tuned for Elly's "Training Tale" with tapirs. The only hint is: "From six months to six seconds." For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@gmail.com and to reach Elly with questions contact presidentelect@theabma.org. Let's talk some training!
- 2:45 Intro to Elly
- 4:00 Is training enrichment?
- 7:25 Situations when training may not be enriching?
- 11:00 How can training help an enrichment program?
- 16:40 Training animals to interact with enrichment opportunities
- 25:45 Enriched environments and lives
- 28:40 “Training Tale”
23: Goal-Based Enrichment with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo
This episode is the first of a two part discussion about enrichment with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo and President Elect of The ABMA. The focus of this episode is Goal-Based Enrichment and the evolution of how we view and implement enrichment opportunities. Elly discusses what goal-based enrichment looks like, how to plan it, how to record it, and how to get a team to buy into it. And make sure you tune in for Elly's "Training (or Enrichment) Tale" about an "enrichment miracle" with a squirrel monkey. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Elly with questions about the episode or Behavior Month contact presidentelect@theabma.org Let's talk some training!
- 4:30 Intro to Elly
- 7:25 Info on Behavior Month and Engage
- 11:40 What is Enrichment?
- 14:00 What is an EED and why are we moving away from that term?
- 18:50 What is Goal-Based Enrichment?
- 24:50 Starting a Goal-Based Enrichment program
- 32:30 Planning and recording
- 37:50 What is enrichment and what is good husbandry and care?
- 40:00 Team involvement and buy-in
- 46:35 “Training Tale”
22: Baiting with Jake Belair, Nashville Zoo
This episode Jake Belair, Nashville Zoo and the First VP of The ABMA, discusses another strategy for training behaviors: Baiting. Jake breaks down the challenges of baiting and why it shouldn't be the first option when training a behavior, however, it is still a tool in the training toolkit that has some practical applications. This episode is full of many real life behavior examples with a multitude of species including hornbills, caracals, sea lions, skunks, and clouded leopards. But make sure you tune in for Jake's "Training Tale" about how the trainers at the Nashville Zoo use their heads (literally) during Kookaburra free-flight training. Jake also gives a tease for the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference hosted by the Nashville Zoo! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Jake contact firstvp@theabma.org Let's talk some training!
21: Capturing/Scanning with Rodrico Michel (CPAT), Mandai Wildlife Group, Singapore
This episode features the first (of many) interviews with a guest currently not living in the United States. Zooming in from Singapore, Rodrico Michel (CPAT) with the Mandai Wildlife Group, joins the podcast to discuss capturing/scanning. Rodrico breaks down what this technique looks like in practice and the advantages, but also challenges of capturing/scanning. Tune in for some really interesting and fun training stories involving innovation behaviors, double back flips, ring-tailed lemur stink fights, and Rodrico's "Training Tale" about how changing an animal's routine from predictable to dynamic can completely change an animal's life and relationships! The podcast has currently reached listeners in 50 countries so thank you to everyone who has tuned in and formed this community! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Rodrico either email the podcast or reach out on his social media channels. Let's talk some training!
20: Zoological Podcasters Assemble! Dr. Grey Stafford, Zoo Logic. Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy. Ari Bailey and Chris Jenkins, The TEC Talk Podcast
This episode Shane Gorbett, the host of "Animal Behavior Conversations", is joined by four other incredible hosts of three other like-minded, zoological and behavior-based podcasts. Joining Shane in this episode is Chris Jenkins and Ari Bailey, the hosts of The TEC Talk Podcast, Dr. Grey Stafford, the host of Zoo Logic, and Ryan Cartlidge, the host of Animal Training Academy Podcast Show. These five podcast hosts nerd out about all things podcasting and behavior while also pulling back the curtain to give insight in to the podcasting process. The hosts also comment on the future of the zoological field and the importance of sharing information. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and make sure to check out and tune in to Zoo Logic, Animal Training Academy Podcast Show, and The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc. Let's talk some training (and podcasting)!
19: Podcast Throwback - Keynote Presentation From the 2022 ABMA Virtual Conference by Dr. Joe Layng Titled "Consequences, Superimposition, Coercion and Their Non-Linear Alternatives"
18: Shaping With Successive Approximations with Tricia Dees
This episode Tricia Dees, ABMA Sponsorship Chair, breaks down shaping and you can't talk about shaping without also talking about successive approximations. Tricia discusses how successive approximations can be utilized when training novel behaviors and their role when behaviors break down or regress. Tricia also offers ideas on what to do and think about if an animal is not reaching the criteria for the next successive approximation in the shaping plan. Tune in for one of the most unique "Training Tales" we've heard on the podcast involving sea lions and a waterpark! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Tricia reach out on her social media channels or contact ttutricia@yahoo.com . Let's talk some training!
17: Click, Whistle, Good: All About Bridges with Marni Wood, Zoo Miami
This episode Marni Wood, Zoo Miami and ABMA Board of Directors, talks all things bridging stimulus. Marni breaks down the many types of things used as bridges and how a bridge is trained using respondent conditioning. She also talks through something we will have all done in our career and that is what to do when you bridge at the wrong moment. Tune in for Marni's "Training Tale" about the first behavior she trained with a sea lion! The conversation talks a turn when Marni discusses how the sea lion's rear end was stimulated. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Marni contact directormarni@theabma.org or marni.wood@miamidade.gov . Let's talk some training!