Episode 366 Chirag Patel Pt 2 The Click Is A Gatekeeper

Episode 366 Chirag Patel Pt 2 The Click Is A Gatekeeper

From Equiosity by Equiosity

March 12, 2026 · 46 min

About this episode

In this episode, Chirag Patel discusses the role of the click in clicker training as a gatekeeper and shares insights on marker signals.

This is part 2 of a conversation with Chirag Patel. Chirag is based in London where consults on the ethical and science-based practice of behavior management and training for animals housed in domestic, zoo, and laboratory environments. Chirag earned his BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Sciences from the Royal Veterinary College in London and a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Animal Behavior from the University of Lincoln, UK. He is also a certified parrot behavior consultant (CPBC) with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). Currently, Chirag is studying for a MSc in Applied Behavior Analysis. In Part 1 we ended with a discussion of marker signals. In many of the demos I’ve watched of Chirag’s training he uses with food without a marker signal. Chirag explained his thinking behind this strategy. In Part 2 we begin with my reasons for the choices I make related to the use of marker signals. The click in clicker training has been referred to in many ways. It is a bridge, a marker signal, a snap shot that captures a precise moment. It is very much a cue. I add yet another metaphor for the role the click plays. It is a gatekeeper. I explain what I mean by…

People in this episode

Guest: Chirag Patel

Topics covered

  • behavior management
  • training
  • marker signals
  • clicker training

Keywords

  • animal behavior
  • ethical training
  • science-based practice

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Click Is A Gatekeeper, Hons, a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Animal Behavior, MSc

Places: London

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