The Poultry Keeper

bronskibeat · Joined: 09 Sep 2007 Posts: 1613 Location: Clawddnewydd

Ok, I would like to put rings on my chicks (hens and turkeys and hopefully, geese) Could anyone advise me on

a) which type is best
b) which size would I need for bantams (pekins and leghorns), orps, leghorns, brahmas, turkeys and Chinese geese Confused

At least sheep tags all come in either adult or lamb size Rolling Eyes

Sedgewort Bramble · Posted: Fri May 02, 2008 8:25 pm Post subject:

I use spiral rings.

Sizes........If you're starting with chicks, basically every size between 6 mm and 25mm.

Got yer cheque book ready??

mojo · Posted: Fri May 02, 2008 9:27 pm Post subject:

there are two types of rings .open and closed...........open you can put on and take off any time in the life of the bird(even change if they get tight)....closed are fitted before chicks go outside ....every breed has a set size and each year has a set colour and a code number and year mark and are used mainly by breeders and are usually bought by mail order or from clubs ..this years are grey ....any poultry type store will have open rings of which there are several sorts and lots of colours.............try to avoid red as most poultry think red is for pecking.........hope that helps mojo

Henwife · Joined: 31 Jan 2006 Posts: 3222 Location: Monmouthshire

The DFT has the biggest range of sizes and colours. Flat rings are easiest to put on and take off, and spirals are the best for adult birds. Once on they seem to stay on. For chicks either toe punch or use plastic cable ties, remembering to check they are still loose enough every week. I don't find red rings cause any additional interest, and I use a lot when double ringing (breed & sex with chicks) so I can pick them out easily.

bronskibeat · Joined: 09 Sep 2007 Posts: 1613 Location: Clawddnewydd

Thanks peeps Very Happy

I'll have a look at DFT, Solway feeders have quite a few too......... Very Happy

Henwife · Joined: 31 Jan 2006 Posts: 3222 Location: Monmouthshire

Don't be tempted by the 'clip on' rings. They are extremely awkward to put on single handed. Only Shiva would manage it with ease.

bronskibeat · Joined: 09 Sep 2007 Posts: 1613 Location: Clawddnewydd

Thanks for the warning, good job I know who Shiva is then Laughing

Woodburner · Posted: Sun May 04, 2008 9:16 am Post subject:

DFT ?
Department for Transport? I don't think so somehow. Razz

Kitsune · Joined: 13 Mar 2008 Posts: 1331 Location: Manchester

I've got the clip on rings from solway - they need a bit of deftness to put on single handed but not too much - I've managed it with these first 20 with no problem

Henwife · Joined: 31 Jan 2006 Posts: 3222 Location: Monmouthshire

DFT - Domestic Fowl Trust. My clip rings came from Solway Feeders too. The arthritic fingers are all my own.