The course will be primarily lecture, however, will include live experiences with the marine mammals at Moss Landing Marine Labs and in the surrounding areas. Students will intern at least one day at Moss Landing Marine Labs assisting in the care of research-trained California sea lions. This course explores the field of animal training from a psychological and a technical perspective. It provides a theoretical background in relevant animal behavior and psychological principles related to the practical goal of modifying captive animal behavior. Topics explored include the history and ethics of animal use and training.
Students also receive a solid education in the practical discipline of animal training techniques.
These techniques will be demonstrated using the trained sea lion collection at Moss Landing Marine Labs where the course is taught. Students will intern at least one day at Moss Landing Marine Labs assisting in the care and training of research-trained sea lions. Enrollment for each class limited to 40.