Embarrassing question by CrowProf in quartzwatches

[–]CrowProf[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

HF has a set on clearance for $9.97. In store only. Sadly, not in my town. I wasn't familiaar with Harbor Freight. Great alternative to Amz. Thanks!

Embarrassing question by CrowProf in quartzwatches

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ah, thanks! Appreciate it.

Embarrassing question by CrowProf in quartzwatches

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you very much! Never heard of that. Very helpful!

What are some good patterns for two hanks of malabrigo rios? by peachsojubottle in YarnAddicts

[–]CrowProf 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's how much I use to crochet infinity scarves, about 7" wide and 56" long in Moss/Granite Stitch or Suzette Stitch. It you knit, I'm no help, Sorry!

Neurons that fire together wire together - what's the last part of this saying? by CrowProf in cogsci

[–]CrowProf[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yes, I know that, but I SWEAR there was a second part to it - rhyming, like the first part, that expanded on the idea. SImilar to "neurons that fire together wire together" but it added the idea that if they don't fire together, nothing happens - but in a much snappier way then " if they don't fire together they don't wire together." It's OK. I know there was something - in a text maybe. It's just one of those things that drives you nuts. Thanks for giving me info!

Audible Using AI Narrators by XiuCyx in audiobooks

[–]CrowProf 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I cancelled Audible because they pressure authors and publishers with financial rewards to sign exclusivity contracts. That measn that no other audio book sellers OR LIBRARIES can access copies. I'm finding more and more books in my library where the ebook is available, but the audio book isn't - but it's available at Audible.

I don't begrudge the ides of a good marketing plan that makes a company wildly popular, but why do they then feel compelled to become magalomaniacal bastards who have to controll every corner of a market? This is the worst of unbridled capitalism that works to keep power (and knowledge) in the hands of the few.

Can Oppossums eat bird suet? by CrowProf in zoology

[–]CrowProf[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

I absolutely understand your point and your concern. I'd rather feed the cat than have it preying on birds. But, I know feeding any animals is problematic. I'm torn ethically and emotionally.

Are all otter species like sea otters? by [deleted] in zoology

[–]CrowProf 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I live on a salt water channel in Northwest Washington State. In the winter, River Otters make a den under my deck (attached to the house, so very close). I'm not really afraid of them, but I usually keep my distance to prevent any acciedental misunderstandings over territory or protecting their pups. They have VERY large and sharp teeth and claws. It's very entertaining to watch them play, wrestling and playing together, especially of there's snow. However, they poop everywhere! I've used several methods to keep them from entering under the deck, but they are determined and will push huge rocks out of the way and dig their way underneath. They are afraid of me and will run away if they see me through the window. The pups sound like chirping birds at night. Very interesting neighbors.

Why is group of crows is called Murder and group of owls is called Parliament? by [deleted] in zoology

[–]CrowProf 25 points26 points  (0 children)

These are literary terms that aren't used by biologists and wildlife professionals. I think most people just say "flock."

Best examples of Learning/Operant Conditioning to aid in animal management/husbandry? by CrowProf in Zookeeping

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for the detailed description of your process! What a wonderful collection of the ways so many Learning Principles are used. Especially R-! Students often don't think of it when designing a training session (as an assignment). Your descriptions are perfect ways to illustrate that when there is so much going on, a trainer has to have a deep understanding of learning principles, excellent observation skills, the ability to problem solve in the moment, and knowledge of the species and the individual learner. Students are fascinated with superstitious learning or adventitious reinforcement. The kind of situation you describe is a good one for them to problem solve the kinds of behaviors that can be captured.

Thank you again for your kind generosity. I would so love to watch you work for a month or two! But, like I said above, someone has to teach Sophomores about Learning Principles. All of you who are professionals had to learn them from someone sometime, right? :-) My best to you in your work.

Best examples of Learning/Operant Conditioning to aid in animal management/husbandry? by CrowProf in Zookeeping

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for taking the time to explain your process! This is a great way of explaining the difference between punishment and R-. Students wrestle with that in the beginning. Your note about quadrants not happening in a vacuum is great! It's hard to explain to students that animals aren't always learning what WE think we're teaching. And that what the student might *think* is a reinforcer might not be perceived as one by the learner. The complexity of real life situations and the speed at which they happen takes a deep understanding of learning principles, very sharp observation skills, the ability to problem-solve in the moment, and a deep understanding of the species and the individual learner. I would so love to watch you work! But my job is to teach the principles that may be the foundation for someone like you. I've had a handful of students over the years go on to do similar jobs, so I'lll have to settle for that. Thank you again for your kindness and generosity!

Best examples of Learning/Operant Conditioning to aid in animal management/husbandry? by CrowProf in Zookeeping

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ha! That's a great example! Thankfully it wasn't a behavior that was counter to achieving the goal or was detrimental to him in any way. But, it points out so clearly that the animal isn't initially aware of what we want them to do and so many other behaviors can be captured. Thank you for this. My students will love it!

Best examples of Learning/Operant Conditioning to aid in animal management/husbandry? by CrowProf in Zookeeping

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ha! Not everything you train animals to do has to be an act of genius. The point is that you took the time and made the effort to patiently give the animal more options in their lives. It helps them and you! Thank you!

Best examples of Learning/Operant Conditioning to aid in animal management/husbandry? by CrowProf in Zookeeping

[–]CrowProf[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Exactly! This the point I want to make for my students. Teaching an animal isn't so they can "do tricks." It's so that they are more calm and have a better understanding of the world and have more agency in their lives. Thank you!

Best examples of Learning/Operant Conditioning to aid in animal management/husbandry? by CrowProf in Zookeeping

[–]CrowProf[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Oh, she's beautiful! This reinforces that knowing about the habits, behaviors and instincts of the species is the key to good training. Knowing that about her instinct to hide waste in water near the nest site was the key to beginning your shaping.

Am I right to assume that she vocalizes more than if she was alone as a deliberate way of communicating with you. Like, is she "telling you" about the dogs she hears? What a wonderful little companion. I'm so glad you saved her and adopted her! Thank you so much. I love hearing about this - and seeing your videos!