Okay, as usual, this is going to an an almost Wordless Wednesday post!
I’ve been chatting some with Linda, who works at Zooworld in Panama City Beach, Florida. In the picture above she is working on target training (using clicker training) with one of the zoo’s young giraffes. I’ve written before about why training is so important for zoos. Also, just like with any other animal, it’s important for zoos to start working with their animals at a young age.
Linda and the other staff at Zooworld will use positive training techniques to teach this cute fellow a variety of behaviors that will make it both easier and safer for them to interact with him and care for him. For example, they plan to teach him to allow his hooves to be handled for trimming and to cooperate during medical check-ups.
Also, you can see that Linda is using protected contact to work with this fellow, which is a safe choice when working with a young animal that is new to training, especially one that is already bigger than you!
I understand the need for target training, I want to know how you qualify as an animal trainer at zooworld and also what is the positive reward offered to a giraffe?
Hi Tom,
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
I am not associated with Zooworld. I posted the photo because I thought it was a neat photo (and Linda gave me the permission to post it.) You would have to contact Zooworld to find out more about their training program, including what it takes to be a trainer at Zooworld and what types of rewards they use with their giraffes.
Many zoos will use food from the animals’ regular diet during training. Special treats and foods that the animal really likes can also be great for training. Of course, when using treats or extra food, it’s always important to make sure the animal is still receiving a healthy, balanced diet.
cheers,
Mary