Tagging/marking ducklings

[marybowman]

Can I use different colored pipe cleaners for a short time? Do you think that would work?

 

[Vosh Sahaal]

Pipe cleaners have sharp ends from where they are cut. I would advise against it. Some hatcheries gently use a sharpie so as to mark head fluff without contacting skin. A small dab of food coloring is also safe. Just don't die their skin.

 

[Duck Drover]

We use zip ties on their legs. They just need to be cut off and replaced as they are growing so they don't end up too tight. They will pull them off if they are too loose.

 

[marybowman]

Pipe cleaners have sharp ends from where they are cut. I would advise against it. Some hatcheries gently use a sharpie so as to mark head fluff without contacting skin. A small dab of food coloring is also safe. Just don't die their skin.

Oh good point. Marking top of head is a good idea!

 

[marybowman]

We use zip ties on their legs. They just need to be cut off and replaced as they are growing so they don't end up too tight. They will pull them off if they are too loose.

What is the rule for fit?

 

[Duck Drover]

You need to get them tight enough that you can't pull them over the back toe. If it can slip below the toe they will pull them off.