(Optional) Describe methods of moving nonaggressive common exotic animals into and out of cages or enclosures.

Description should include

• required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• the natural nonaggressive and aggressive behaviors of teacher-selected species of exotic animal (e.g., rodents, rabbits, reptiles, birds, fish)
• the effect of stress on teacher-selected species
• methods for calming animals prior to moving
• safety hazards and restraint issues specific to teacher-selected species
• identification of potential escape routes and methods of decreasing risk of escape
• standard, safe practices for moving and transporting the animal.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What behaviors would a reptile exhibit to indicate it may respond aggressively to handling?
• Why is it important to examine the type of caging the reptile is in prior to attempting to remove it from the cage?
• What types of restraint equipment could be used to assist in handling a reptile?
• What potential injuries could occur to the animal due to inappropriate restraint and/or handling? What potential injuries could occur to the handler?
• How can using the wrong equipment cause disease or injury to fish?
• What should be done to prepare a new tank prior to attempting to move the fish?
• What are the methods of safely handling and/or restraining common pet birds?
• Why is it important to understand bird anatomy as it pertains to restraint methods?
• How could a handler minimize stress to a bird during handling?
• What steps should a handler take in moving a bird? How do these steps vary depending on species?