How to Make Colored Leg Bands to Tell Ducklings & Ducks Apart

Raising ducklings into healthy ducks may require finding ways to tell them apart -- whether by breed, temperament or age. Poultry breeding companies sell commercial leg bands in different colors that help keep track of ducks and ducklings. But you can easily create these ties yourself using different-colored zip ties. The ties must be changed as they grow, or they will cut into the ducklings' legs.

Things You'll Need

  • Multicolored zip ties -- available at electronics stores and hardware stores (may be stocked as "cable ties")
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather the ducks and ducklings. Corral them in a space that offers easy access to each bird.

    • 2

      Attach the zip ties. Pull the thin end of the zip tie through the square hole, until it is tight enough not to be pecked off but with enough room to move up and down the leg with ease. Trim any excess tie.

    • 3

      Check the ties regularly. Every few days, check them to make sure they are not cutting into the birds' legs. Change the ties as needed.