Leg Bands

[magni1]

Hi, I was at the vet yesterday for a well check up. They had blood work done and checked over. They are 5 months old and healthy. What I wanted to ask is my vet told me after the blood work comes back and everything is OK to take off the leg bands, she said if they get caught they can break a leg. I would think it can happen but has anyone else taken them off? or should I leave them on. Thanks Denise

[Lisa B]

Mine all have them for identification purposes. Some microchip if they take off the bands since thats the only means to identify if stolen or lost.
Not all places know to check for a microchip yet tho, and Not sure we know the long term effects just yet in the smaller guys.

[CatToy]

Hello, years ago I did believe in banding. But I firmly agree now to have all bands clipped off.
Our conure has to have hers clipped off, she gets around like mad and could easily get hung up on it.

Our avian vet put it best: You would hate to come home from a day trip or longer, to find your bird hanging dead upside down. The bands are dangerous.

Micro chipping, they have to be given a sedative. I'm not willing to take either risk.
That's just me. I was intent on getting Cherry micro chipped until I found out they wanted to use anesthesia. No way Jose.

Clips those bands, and use a tether if you must take your baby outside with u.
CT

[Tudorbug]

If your bird gets away, a band number may be helpful in getting it back.

Has anyone had a personal experience involving a bird's band getting caught in some way that immoblizes or injures the bird?

David

[Lisa B]

In 33 years, all mine have had bands. I havent had any problems but I am also vigilant about making sure nothing is hanging, no open clips to get caught on etc.
Alot of my friends have lost birds. most did not get them back. Birds have been noted to be found, but the finder wont give them back with out the bands as proof. (and not microchipped) Without ID, you have no proof of anything.
If you have a band in your hand, and not on the bird, again, no proof.

If a band is done properly by the breeder, usually there isnt a problem.