Suggestions on marking chicks for identification....PLEASE!!

[HippieHomesteader]

I have babies that are just a few days old, and when I started noticing a little pasty butt, I wanted to mark them so I could see if the same ones were getting pasty each day. I got some food coloring and dropped one dot on the top of their heads, then wiped it away so it didn't rub on the other chicks. I didn't use the red dye, though.

I liked being able to identify them so much that I marked everyone, and now I have "No dot, Blue dot, Green dot, and Yellow dot" BOs, light brahmas, and red sexlinks. Really helps with record keeping, and I can quickly look in and identify them, so I feel like I'm going to know their little personalities better.

 

[melissastraka]

I tried the zip cord idea on my 3 month olds and they helped eachother get them off...it was funny to watch. I didnt do them very tight since they are still growing but it was a good thought. I am now on my way out with food coloring!

 

[M0therGoose]

I rubbed a little straight food coloring on their backs to tell my baby geese apart. Didn't hurt them at all. In fact, it gave them a little massage while i did it. I am now thinking of dyeing them completely so my kids can see when they are feathering out. Plus they'de look so cool different colors and i don't think i'd hurt them as long as i used warm water.

has anyone done that before??