Leg bands... can't decide between 2 options... any experience?

[Des R]

I'm looking for numbered leg bands for my chickens, and I've narrowed it down to two styles... anyone with experience willing to weigh in?

http://www.strombergschickens.com/product/Adjustable-Red-Aluminum-Bands-304r/metal-bands



http://www.strombergschickens.com/p...-Poultry-Bands/Numbered-Zip-Tie-Poultry-Bands



Thanks in advance.
Des

 

[boskelli1571]

So glad you asked!

I have used both, my first was the plastic zip ties - very easy to put on but the numbers rubbed off after a couple of months - frustrating! So now I use the metal bands. A bit more difficult to put on, unless your birds will hold out their leg for you

I wrap them in a towel with their head covered and it works pretty well. The metal bands have endured rain, snow, mud etc. so save your $$.

 

[Des R]

Thank you for replying, that's exactly what I was worried about. Are these the type of metal bands you use?

 

[boskelli1571]

Thank you for replying, that's exactly what I was worried about. Are these the type of metal bands you use?

Yes - the pliers to apply them are sold separately. It's a bit pricey, but worth the durability..

 

[Des R]

Perfect, ordering now. Thanks again!

 

[boskelli1571]

Perfect, ordering now. Thanks again!

 

[casportpony]

So glad you asked!

I have used both, my first was the plastic zip ties - very easy to put on but the numbers rubbed off after a couple of months - frustrating! So now I use the metal bands. A bit more difficult to put on, unless your birds will hold out their leg for you

I wrap them in a towel with their head covered and it works pretty well. The metal bands have endured rain, snow, mud etc. so save your $$.

I got all excited when I saw numbered zip ties, then I saw your post.

Looks like I won't be buying the numbered zip ties. Thanks for posting your experience!

 

[boskelli1571]

I got all excited when I saw numbered zip ties, then I saw your post.

Looks like I won't be buying the numbered zip ties. Thanks for posting your experience!

Yes - it's a shame b/c they are so easy to use. Perhaps they will work on more permanent marking - I did let them know about it

 

[song of joy]

Thanks for posting. I had never seen these types of bands before.

Another option is bandettes, which I've found to work very well. They are clearly marked, long-lasting and easy to put on. However, they are not adjustable.
https://cutlersupply.com/zen_new51/...=q1ofg3p3no9rkn05rnaidad7h7&keyword=bandettes

 

[Des R]

The bandettes are what almost bought, I really like the idea of them. But I found a few people who said their birds would loose the bands if they free ranged with trees and branches and such, which mine do. I also had the concern that I have difference sized breeds, requiring a few different sized bands.. which is what led me to these options. I'll follow up after I have them on the girls if you are interested...

Do you have any problems loosing the bandettes?