True or False: A bird must have prior training experience for systematic desensitization to be effective.

Systematic desensitization is a behavioral technique used to help animals, including birds, gradually overcome their fear or anxiety towards certain stimuli. It relies on the principle that animals can learn to cope with previously fear-inducing situations by being exposed to those stimuli in a controlled and gradual manner.

The effectiveness of systematic desensitization does not hinge on a bird having prior training experience. Birds of all backgrounds, including those with little to no training, can benefit from this approach. The key lies in the gradual introduction to stimuli, desensitizing them over time without overwhelming the animal. This can be done in a way that considers the individual bird's temperament and history, facilitating a learning environment devoid of fear.

In contrast to the chosen response, indicating that prior training is necessary would suggest an unnecessary barrier to implementing systematic desensitization. Birds can start the process from various starting points, thus making it accessible and applicable to a broad range of individuals regardless of previous experiences or training.