Glove Gamble

Since our vet visit two weeks ago, Carson the Red-tailed Hawk has been hesitant to step on my glove. Understandably, she's weighing the risks. If I step on glove, what are the chances something scary will happen? Every time she steps up, she takes that gamble. My job as her trainer is to build more positive associations than negative ones so she is more likely to go for it. It's all about trust.

This morning I felt the warm, spring-like sun and knew Carson would enjoy sitting outside to bask. But would she be willing to come out with me?

I brought the glove up to her feet. She didn't budge. I took a step back, then tried again. She looked at the glove, then lightly hopped away to the other side of the perch. That was a definite, "no thanks, I'm not willing to risk it."

Carson was not interested in stepping on glove.

I decided to try again in the afternoon. This time, I held out the glove and one foot lifted, hovering above the perch. I waited. She carefully set the foot on glove, followed by the other foot. We headed outside as I shoveled out treats and found a sunny spot to sit. Pretty soon her feathers fluffed and she tucked a foot in relaxation. Hopefully she realizes that sometimes coming outside can be more fun than staying in!

Carson loves basking in the sun, her right foot tucked in relaxation.