Ask the Swan Specialist

Re: Leg band size
By:The Regal Swan
Date: 12 May 2015
In Response To: Leg band size (Jack)

Hi Jack

You will need to contact Bob Knox at Knox Swan and Dog. 847-875-3947...He will have this information. We do not use leg bands for several reasons, they can get caught on something and the swan's leg severely injured or the swan tangled and cannot free itself, young swans must constantly have the band's changed to prevent the limb from being injured or tangled from too large a band or the limb constricted from too small a band, in cold climates, the band's can freeze injuring limbs.

We recommend microchips because the birds cannot become tangled and you do not have to keep changing bands. Additionally, should your swan be stolen, injured or killed, it is a felony in the state of Florida if the swan is microchipped. Someone stealing your swan can remove a leg band and you have no proof the swan is yours. Of course, you will need to identify recognizable attributes to identify each swan in your flock so that you do not have to recapture for identification purposes. Also, there are various microchips on the market. Some are mini chips and others have thermometers that can provide you with the body temperature of the swan when scanned which can give additional info on the health of your swan. We have tested these thermal microchips by Destin Fearing and the temperatures rendered are accurate. You will need to have a knowledgeable vet regarding swans microchip your birds. The Regal Swan

Messages In This Thread

Leg band size -- Jack -- 11 May 2015
Re: Leg band size -- The Regal Swan -- 12 May 2015