79 Transitioning from a traditional to choice based training paradigm
From The Avian Behavior Podcast by Hillary Hankey
March 27, 2026 · 49 min · Season 6 · Episode 51
About this episode
Hillary Hankey discusses the transition from traditional to choice-based training for ambassador raptors, focusing on welfare standards and behavioral science.
Explore the transition from traditional to choice-based training for ambassador raptors with Hillary Hankey. This professional discussion is a presentation from the 2026 NWRA conference that looks into evolving welfare standards, the science of behavior, and the distinction between coercion and choice. Learn about the benefits of choice-based methods, including reduced stress and improved feather condition, and understand the strategic steps for successful implementation in avian programs. For a free 14 day trial of the Avian Behavior Lab, use the code AVIAN
People in this episode
Host: Hillary Hankey
Topics covered
- choice-based training
- avian welfare
- behavior science
- coercion vs choice
- raptor training
Keywords
- choice-based methods
- raptors
- training paradigm
- animal welfare
- behavioral science
- stress reduction
- feather condition
Sponsors
Avian Behavior Lab
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