During my time at Dolphin Marine Magic, I got to spend time with several animals. Two animals in particular were Rocky and Adelaide who are Australian Sea Lions. Both animals were taught how to paint in response to signals given by trainers. I got to personally oversee the training techniques utilized with a female sea lion named Adelaide. Her learning capabilities allowed her to easily recognize the signals required to paint which was absolutely amazing. First we would set up a child size paint stand and canvas. After set up we place the brush in the sea lion's mouth; at this point the animal is not allowed to chew on the brush but must hold it in its mouth. Next we signal the seal to the canvas where it is directed on where to move the brush. Over time, the sea lions learn how to paint properly and no longer require these direct signals. To reinforce this behavior, they are given fish or pats at the completion of each task when done correctly. This was definitely one of my most memorable experiences while working there. Adelaide covered me in the paint, but who can get mad at an animal that cute?
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