How do you tell your chickens apart???

[jbh06]

I have 4 golden comets (that look more like RIRs) that all look identical, and 2 Tetra tints that look the same. I was just curious what you use to tell them apart. Ankle tags?? Thanks

 

[RedfogsFlock]

When we had 50 chickens and 9 roosters it took a bit, but after awhile you'll just know.

They all have different personalities, and slight marking differences that you will notice. GOOD LUCK!!

 

[ChicKat]

That's really a good one......

There are plastic leg rings that are sold on ebay for not much -- If you chickens are fully grown and you find the size that fits, that would be one way. I will edit with a link if I find some tonight.

If you really study them you may find that there is some difference in their beak coloring, the shape of their comb---or their feathering. For example one Golden Comet may have more white feathers visible in her wing or tail than another.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260822177512

http://cgi.ebay.com/100-LEG-BANDS-C...=260822177512&ps=63&clkid=1743774702809818764

http://cgi.ebay.com/Spiral-Plastic-...942?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3c9bf4b35e

http://cgi.ebay.com/100PCS-Poultry-...781?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item3f0b99222d

I bought some from the first seller....may put one on tomorrow when I give the chickens their monthly check up

 

[chickengoober]

You might try some colored leg bands

 

[justtoni44]

HOnestly, I have a few Barred rock that I do not have a clue.
But generally speaking.they show a personality difference

 

[Dingleberry]

at the feed stores they have colored bands you put on their legs. I use those.

 

[jbh06]

Thanks, I will look for leg bands. My golden comets do not have any white at all. They are completely dark like a RIR. Three always travel around the yard together, and one is usually alone. That is the only thing I can see a difference in.

 

[gryeyes]

Originally, I got different breeds just to avoid that problem. As time passed, I managed to get a few "duplicate" breeds but have been able to tell them apart after a while, because their personalities are all different. However, there are differences in their beaks, their feathering colors or patterns, their vocalizations, etc.

 

[ChicKat]

Quote:
I see what you mean....that would make it even harder. Leg bands would certainly help!

 

[TinyTotsSeramas]

for my birds that look alike (like my Jersey girls)
I use color coded zip ties. So now with my Jersey girls I know Neon Orange is Jersey and Neon Pink is Liquorish!