Leg bands

[chipens]

Ok i want to mark some new hens. I've found a few different types/ways. Let me know your opinions, pros/cons, what sizes you use?
Don't want to know about zipties
-Spiral
-Plastic clip type
-Flat coil (haven't seen much on these on here)
I like the fact these are reusable.
The hens are penned and checked regulary

 

[OneToManyChickens]

Some places sell bands that are made for this, like rubber bands. You could also go an interesting route and paint the nails of your hens, Haha.

 

[aart]

My flock is not that big, 15-20 over winter, but up to 30+ during spring/summer when replacement layers are hatched and growing.
I band all of them, right out of the incubator.
Right or left leg for year hatched, and various colors for other delineations, like certain crosses. Additional bands might be added for a concern that needs watching.

4" zipties have worked well here, small enough for chicks and fine for older birds.
They can break and fall off, so older birds get a new one annually or as needed.
Best part about zipties is you can adjust the size needed easily upon installation.

Care must be taken to monitor them for growth(like any legband),
and the right tools make it pretty easy to remove old bands and replace with new ones.
Here's how I do it:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/leg-banding-with-zipties.68075/

 

[pintail_drake2004]

I used the plastic spiral ones, and didn't like them. The plastic leg bandetts from strombergs held up a little better. Now I just use colored zip ties.