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The
Importance of Identification for Your Bird
The potential loss from escape or theft is a very real
and significant concern with many caged bird species. Identification and
tracking individuals in groups or in breeding collections can, at times become
quite challenging, potentially leading to impaired record keeping accuracy and
sub-optimal production. The risk of financial, emotional and genetic losses can
be significantly reduced through the use of identification systems in your bird.
For this reason, we strongly recommend some means of permanent identification
for your pet or breeding bird.
Leg Bands
If your bird has a permanent leg band in place you will want to make sure that
it poses no significant risk of injury to your bird, record the Identification
numbers on your medical chart, and leave the band in place. There is concern
about possible risk of injury with leg bands, and some veterinarians routinely
remove them from all pet birds. Unfortunately, this practice results in the
actual removal of permanent identification from your bird as well. It is our
belief that closed bands pose less risk to the birds than open bands, and that a
properly crimped and closed open band is less risky than one that is more open
due to incomplete application.
Microchips
We encourage that you consider having a microchip
implanted as a means of permanent identification for your bird(s). Microchips
may be used in birds that either have no leg bands, have had their bands
removed, or in circumstances where additional and permanent identification
methods may be indicated. These microchips can be implanted easily in most birds
over 100 grams in body weight. The
cost of microchipping is nominal. Microchips are implanted with a
needle and syringe, and there is only the discomfort of the injection
felt by your bird. Anesthesia is not required. No other significant problems
have been noted related to the microchip itself or the implantation of the
chips.
Information
Provided by:
Brian
L.
Speer
,
DVM, DIP, ABVP, ECAMS
Certified
in Avian Practice
European-Certified
Avian Specialist
The
Medical
Center
For Birds
3807
Main Street
Oakley
,
CA
94561
Phone:
925-625-1878
Fax:
925-625-8511
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