"I keep Split Bands on hand all the time to Band birds that I receive that are not Banded and to catch birds that were not Banded as young." Split bands are plastic or metal bands that are split so they may be spread open and then allowed to close or are closed around the leg. Please be sure to select the correct size band for the birds you are banding!
With metal split bands, they can often be opened and closed with your fingers. If not, a small pair of needle-nosed pliers will be helpful. Close the bands slowly to be sure the ends meet flush and do not pinch the flesh.
With plastic split bands, the bands will often come with a metal spreading tool. Be sure to ask for a tool when ordering. Slip the band up the pointed end of the tool with the band seam open wide and opposite from the cup of the tool. Lay the tool and band along the leg of the bird, allowing the leg to slip through the split of the band and against the tool. The band should be positioned between the foot and the joint of the leg. Holding the band in place, gently slip the tool out from inside of the band, allowing the band to close around the leg. Watch the band for a few days to see it is the correct size. Too tight and the band can hinder circulation or cut into the leg. Too loose and the band can slip down and bind the toes or ride up above the leg joint and cause problems.
Always be aware of objects in the cage or flight that leg bands can get caught on. A snagged bird will move frantically and often cause injury.
[See Band Size Charts HERE]
Plastic split bands will often come with a metal spreading tool. Be sure to ask for a tool when ordering.
Slip the band up the pointed end of the tool with the band seam open wide and opposite from the cup of the tool. The band will spread open as it moves up the tool.
Lay the tool and band along the leg of the bird, allowing the leg to slip through the split of the band and against the tool. The band should be positioned between the foot and the joint of the leg. Holding the band in place, gently slip the tool out from inside of the band, allowing the band to close around the leg. Watch the band for a few days to see it is the correct size. Too tight and the band can hinder circulation or cut into the leg. Too loose and the band can slip down and bind the toes or ride up above the leg joint and cause problems. Always be aware of objects in the cage or flight that leg bands can get caught on. A snagged bird will move frantically and often cause injury. Back to Banding Page On to Seamless Banding Page
