leg bands

[JoT]

I was wondering who or what determines the numbers and letters on the birds leg bands? Can you trace where the bird came from by the band? Is there some registry of numbers?

[birdsnreps]

the AFA has registered leg bands that you can trace. last year i got my leg bands from L&M, i dont think they actually register the bands, but i think yours has to have a unique "code" on them, different from anyone elses. i might go with the AFA leg bands this year, im not sure yet.

[Lori~D]

L&M will make traceable band with your specific initials. Bird clubs will register bands such as American Lovebird Association whatever. Size and your ordering options determine lettering or registration associations like AFA ect. which my lovebirds have I believe is Avain Federation of America or something to that effect. Numbers usually show Hatch year but given the breeder sometimes uses up old bands this may not be accurate. And then usually the state hatched. The last part of the number usually indicates the numbering within that seasons hatch. For instance I order a string of twenty bands one the last numbers might be 005 on your birds band meaning he was the fifth bird born of that species (leg band size) for that season. breeders use them differently.

[Lori~D]

L_M_Bird Leg Bands Products Catalogue

[JoT]

Thanks for the info
My bird's band has 2 letters than FL which I am guessing is for Florida. Then there are 4 numbers none of which could be the the year. I was wondering if I could find out where my bird came from by the band. It seems like a registry of sorts would be a good idea too. A way to identify lost or stolen birds since they have them on anyway.

[Lori~D]

the year is often two tiny numbers sideways. There are registries but only if the breeder belongs to them