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            To Ring Or Not To Ring ?

Fitting rings to youngsters is a matter determined on a breeder-by-breeder basis. The sole object of ringing a bird is for identification purposes. There are two types of rings available, the split and the closed. The split ring can be placed on a bird at any time, but the closed metal ring must be fitted whilst the bird is a chick. Once fitted, it is a permanent means of confirming the bird's age because the rings are dated, and also carry a number which you can record. In Australia we have a six colour repeat system which runs like this.

   GREEN-2007                GOLD-2006            PURPLE-2005

   BLUE-2004                  RED-2003               BLACK-2002

The disadvantage of ringing is that the chick, and the adult it grows into, can get its leg caught on wires or branches and cause injury. A lovebird has a powerful beak and may attempt to remove the ring. This action can again cause damage to the foot. A hen seeing a ring on a chick may try to remove it, or even worse throw it out the nest- along with the chick! Finally, unless the chick is checked daily, the ring may become compacted with fecal matter. This may cause tightness that restricts the blood flow to the feet and again problems. If you decide to ring your chicks with closed rings then fit them after they are about a week to two weeks old. The ring can fall off easily so it's a good idea to give it check every couple of days. You must obtain suitable sized rings from your local club or from specialist suppliers.

In my opinion ringing birds is a must for every breeder.