Leg Banding vs. Microchipping

[psittasoul]

My cockatiel pair has produced 2 clutches; a clutch of four 4 years ago, the latest a clutch of 5 this month.

Since I have no experience in banding birds, I didn't dare attempt to close-band them; I did not want to risk injury to the babies' legs or feet. I ordered open bands for the 1st clutch, but have never had them applied. I am now considering microchipping the offspring.

Is it safe to do this with cockatiels, or only with larger birds?

Would microchipping the birds be reasonable, or would it be too costly?

Can I still get the vet (or an experienced breeder) to open-band the 4 older birds, or would it be too late for them to get used to them?

Would love to get anyone's feedback on this, thanks.

[sarak]

I'd band them. A regular person cannot utilize a microchip for ID on a regular basis...JMO.

Banding is easy, and I have had some pretty tight fits (read: almost waited too long) with my babies and I did not harm them other than the fact that they did not appreciate being held upside down.

I would not use open bands.

I think once you close-banded a few, you wouldnt mind it at all.

JMO

Sara K

[Just Ask Jan!]

Closed bands have to be applied when the bird is a baby. Usually microchipping is applied to larger parrots as they have larger breast muscles. Open bands can be acquired through SPBE, applied by yourself and be registered with them if you are going to show your birds.
Jan