[truman]

I see so much mention of banding and I am curious: is it a good thing to have a banded bird? Is a breeder who bands more responsible? I bought Truman from a pet shop that only dealt in quakers and that bought him from a breeder; he is not banded. Does that reflect on the quality of the breeder at all, or is it just a personal choice? I didn't even think about it at the time I bought him...I was just so excited about getting a fid that nothing else was in my mind!

[ReneeNoelle]

Buttons is banded and Pickles is not. Some breeders I know won't band because of the dangers that can accompany leg bands. Apparently it can lead to sores, missing toes, etc. Buttons band is closed and doesn't cause her problems but I'm always watching. At the first hint, I'll have it taken off. On the other hand, there are some states that require Quakers to be banded. I can't tell you what they are off hand but someone here will know. I don't think banding indicates how responsible your breeder is, just what their preference might be.

[Carrie~Anne]

I agree with Renee. It doesn't make a breeder irresponsible if they don't band, but personally, I feel ALL breeders should band. It just ensures that they can provide records if needed (for various reasons). If all birds are banded, and then the band removed at the discretion of the owner/vet, then the bird's information can still be traced back to the breeder. You can find out the bird's exact hatch date and for breeding purposes, whether that bird is related to a potential mate. Banding helps to keep things on track, in my opinion.

Banding is a simple procedure, very inexpensive and has more benefits then downfalls.

Of course, breeders that do band, can put whatever information they want on the band, so again, it can kinda limit how much you can find out about your bird. I do feel there should be a standard for band codes, as it would make things a lot easier for every one.

[Andie's Mom]

I don't think banding has a reflection on the quality of the breeder...But it does show that the breeders who do usually have a good record keeping practice.

I have birds that have bands and some that don't. Its just another way to help identify your bird should the need ever arise.