Enrichment At The Zoo
At the Pittsburgh Zoo all training programs use operant conditioning, a process of learning in which behaviors are modified by the consequences that follow them. If an animal is rewarded for a particular behavior, chances are that the behavior will be repeated.
A bridge--a sound or gesture that marks the exact moment that a desired behavior occurs--is used to facilitate this. A word, a whistle, or a clicker (a device which makes a clicking sound) are the most common auditory bridges used by trainers. At the Pittsburgh Zoo animal keepers are trainers, and before keepers begin teaching behaviors, they must make positive associations with their animals using a bridge. Sounding the bridge and providing a positive reinforcer (food) accomplishes this.
Behaviors that are useful in caring for and monitoring health may then be taught to the animals. These behaviors are taught in small steps, which, when combined, will produce a complete desired behavior. This process is called shaping. Using these techniques, trainers may teach many behaviors which can make the difference between life and death. Training a diabetic tiger to present its shoulders and hips to a keeper for required injections of insulin is just one noteworthy example.
Training is also beneficial in the general care of the animals. This care is referred to as animal husbandry.
The Zoo currently has training programs for:
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The Enrichment Committee invites visitors of all ages to explore classes held throughout the year which focus on this fascinating aspect of animal care.