Yesterday we stopped along side the road to see two Macaws that were in an outside aviary. One was a B&G and one appeared to be a Hybrid of some sort. I wanted a closer look at them, so we got out and went looking for the owners and to talk to the birds. No owners showed up despite calling out and knocking on the door. So I went and talked to the birds who came right over to the side of the aviary where I was. They were such sweethearts!

I want to stop back there today to see if I can find people. There was so much wrong in that aviary that I would like to help the birds. But where do you start? I don't want to preach or belittle, I would just like to see if they could do a little better for the birds. I will try to take some pictures today.

I do have a question about a band that was on one of the birds. The placement of it bothered me. But I know nothing about bands to be certain that something is wrong. I didn't like how the band appeared to be grooved into it's foot.

Here's a pic of a foot that I photoshopped so you can see where this band was. Is that where it should be?

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BAND.jpg (15.7 KB, 50 views)

Does anyone have a band on their bird that could tell me if that placement is correct?

here is a picture of Charlie's band... it's in the same spot, but his is a loose so it doesn't dig into his leg. Hope this helps!

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charlie band.jpg (44.5 KB, 43 views)

The placement is correct but if it looks tight like your wedding band it is wrong. A band should move but not have gaps (no place to hook on wire or something) when the bird is mature. The band should slide on the leg a little (not a lot, you don't see a lot of movement) as the bird raises his foot.

Thank you very much! Kate that pic is very helpful. I don't see any space in between the foot and the band, just a groove where it looks like it's embedded into the foot, or maybe the foot is swollen around it.

Maple and Harley's bands are just like Charlie's! It should not be grooved into the birds foot.

Bands are put on soon after birth. The bird then grows into it leaving plenty of room for it to just slide slightly.
If I were you, Karen, I would be frank with these people. They may not know any better and think things are perfect for their birds. Invite them to join PC.

That is exactly why I remove all bands.... too much potential for injury or swelling.

Sounds to me like it is placed properly but too tight.... good luck in your quest Karen.

As others have said, it appears in the correct location, but sounds like it is too tight, should be removed by a vet. It would be great if you could talk with the owners and assist them in an effort to help the birds.