Which outcome is achieved by gradual exposure to stimuli during training?

• A. Increased aggression
• B. To reduce fear and stress
• C. Longer training time
• D. Lower endurance

Answer: (B)

Gradual exposure to stimuli works by desensitizing the bird to things it will encounter during hunting and handling. When cues are introduced at low intensity and slowly increased, the bird’s fear response remains small, so it learns these cues aren’t dangerous. Over time this lowers fear and stress, helping the bird stay calm, focus more during training, and cooperate better. This makes training safer and more efficient. Rushing exposure can keep fear high or provoke other problems, and gradual exposure isn’t about increasing endurance or simply lengthening training time.