[Kuikentje]

I am struggling to tell my 5 banties apart, I've ordered some leg rings in different colours to use on a temporary basis, but some people say I shouldn't use them.  May I have your opinions please?

[joyfull]

what reasons have people given you why you should not use them? I have used them in the past and never had a problem.

[bravemurphy]

I would never use them again.

We put them on our chooks when we first had them and about 9 months later the OH said "check that ring"

we had a look and it was in an awkward position we moved it and her leg had grown around it.

I had to cut it off which was very stressful for all parties leave the hen with a very deep gash where the ring was.

[joyfull]

I checked mine every week to see if they had got broken etc.

[GrannieAnnie]

I've only used them a couple of times, but like Joy said they do need checking, esecially if you start using them when the chicks are small.  they come in different sizes.  Then as the chick grows, you put a bigger ring on! 

[JaK]

I use the soft spiral leg rings, never had any issues with them at all. Having said that, I have never used leg rings on chicks or growers before.

[ANHBUC]

I use the small metal quail leg rings (numbered) on chicks that I am trying to identify as male or female so I can keep a record of accuracy.  As they grow they get them replaced to bantam metal leg rings.  The cockerels usually outgrow them but they would be fine on the pullets.  I do check them regularly and take them off when I know who is who.

I use them on my quails as well when I identify a bully I remove it for a day or so and put a leg ring on to see if it continues to be naughty.   

I have also used the plastic clip together ones when I first got my Black Rocks and they worked really well.  They did occasionally come off but by that time you know your birds by their character etc.   

[Kuikentje]

I can't see why there would be a problem with the leg growing too big for the ring - surely I would check it regularly?  Plus I'll be using a clip-on/clip-off type so I can remove them.  I also can't see that it would cause trouble while they are scratching around.  I'm going to try it, anyway, and keep a close eye.

[Aidy]

I have used them as the kids cant tell them apart  me they are just egg laying machines, I mean I dont put rings on my toms!
Anyways back to the question at hand. I have had no problem what so ever with them, but as Joyfull has mentioned my chooks are checked for all sorts on a regular basis so if there was any sign I would know about it.