Identifying Ducklings?

[Ctptcha]

Hi everyone!
I am hatching a nice big batch of eggs now, and I was wondering if there is a way to differentiate each duckling without using leg rings? Can I use a dab of sharpie on their (I don't know how to call it) fluff?
Thanks!

 

[Amiga]

I would not use Sharpie on them, no.... But I don't know what you could use.... might organic food coloring - work?

May I ask what you need to be able to do, that you must mark them so early?

Knowing the reason might help folks come up with options.

 

[dotknott]

What's the objection against leg bands? I'm planning on colored zip ties for my next hatch since I never remember to remove the leg bands when I bring them to the processor.

 

[TLWR]

leg bands or zip ties checked every day or two would be the easiest option

 

[Ctptcha]

Okay! Thanks this is the first time I've done this... I'm doing it because I have different breeds of ducks hatching and I want to be able to tell them apart. Is it bad for them? Can it hurt them?

 

[dotknott]

Sorry, is what bad for them? The zip tie? No, only if it gets tight around their legs.