This presentation will address how the application of Operant Conditioning techniques were applied to training 3 free lofted raptors for Education programs in our Wildlife Education Division (WLE) at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Raptors previously utilized for the WLE division have been traditionally handled and crated for travel without the use of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement. We will demonstrate the benefits of pro-active behavioral management through the application of food and weight management techniques and the use of positive reinforcement from the trainers. Additionally we will discuss how a reinforcing environment without the rehearsal of avoidance behavior or aggression leads to future success and positive relationships.
