One of the topics we really explored at the workshop at Copenhagen Zoo was the bridging stimulus. In my experience this tool is often misunderstood. What I love about this clip featuring Annette Pedersen, is that the trainers have phased out the whistle for well-established behaviors. It is simply not necessary. (They do use it when shaping new ones.) We discussed when a bridge is a burden, when it is better to add a bridge later, when a bridge can and should be phased out, when a bridge may need to remain for the lifetime of the behavior or when a bridge is not necessary at all. Understanding when and why we use a bridging stimulus can make it a more effective training tool. (You will also notice our discussion about how the food bucket does not have to be hidden from her…..yet another interesting topic!) For those who missed our super cool Raising the Bar Think Tank Animal Training Workshop…..stay tuned, you may get a chance for access to what we discussed in our online education program in the future. A huge thank you to Annette Pedersen, Copenhagen Zoo and the animal care team for hosting such an amazing event!. #sealiontraining #bridgingstimulus #advancedanimaltraining (at Copenhagen zoo) https://www.instagram.com/p/B3MRAYpFVPu/?igshid=1fnk1hhtjfh5g