True or False: A bird must physically touch the target for it to be beneficial in training.

The assertion that a bird must physically touch the target for it to be beneficial in training is false. Effective training can occur through various methods, such as visual or auditory cues, without the necessity for the bird to make physical contact with the target. Birds can learn to associate specific cues with desired behaviors or outcomes, which means that the presence of the target can serve as a visual reference that guides their actions even if they do not physically interact with it.

Moreover, concepts like positive reinforcement can be applied through various means, such as verbal praise or food rewards, even when the bird is merely acknowledging the target rather than touching it. This allows for a broader range of training techniques that are beneficial for the bird's learning experience, thus reinforcing the notion that physical contact is not a prerequisite for effective training outcomes.