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 [email protected] and to reach Tegan you can email [email protected]  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”