Toe Punchers

charlie01 · **Joined:** Tue Aug 31, 2010 8:47 pm **Posts:** 100

Hi I toe punched my chicks last weekend.
I was looking at were i toe punched them and it seems that were the hole is it has a scab over it.

My question is: If theres a scab will it heal over the hole or will the scab fall off after awhile?

OakA · **Posted:** Sun Dec 18, 2011 4:33 pm

It should fall off after a short time leaving an identifying hole, however it can at times heal over.
That is why I prefer to use a cauterising punch it then does not heal over, does not bleed which is an invitation to other chicks to pick at it and tear the punch hole out.
If you have nothing else a darning needle or large safety pin heated in a gas flame or candle until red hot will do the job admirably.

MARANMAN · **Joined:** Tue Nov 08, 2011 3:06 pm **Posts:** 38

I prefer the cauterizing punch as well much neater finish and less fuss

wickedwings · **Posted:** Mon Dec 19, 2011 8:24 am

How do you do it Maranman?

Herritage · **Joined:** Thu Dec 22, 2011 8:00 am **Posts:** 2

It is done as soon as they hatch and after you punch use a hot pin to cauterize the hole but I will say many still close over in time so I have gone back to leg banding

Herritage · **Joined:** Thu Dec 22, 2011 8:00 am **Posts:** 2

Sorry to jump in Maranman hope its ok

Heynew · **Joined:** Sun Dec 25, 2011 8:52 am **Posts:** 5

Can you heat the punch instead of using a separate pin?

OakA · **Posted:** Mon Dec 26, 2011 7:45 am

The way I do it the needle/safety pin heated to red hot, IS the punch, one quick and easy action.
I do not use a toe punch then cauterise with a heated pin, that is 2 proceedures, I prefer to minimise the whole affair.
I do have an electic toe punch, that is on a transformer, it heats to red hot a fine wire loop that does a great job.
I bought it many years ago from Multiplo, now Multiquip then had an electician friend mount it on a solid transformer as a stable base.

Heynew · **Joined:** Sun Dec 25, 2011 8:52 am **Posts:** 5

R much better idea I was thinking the two step seems like more stress for the chook what size pin do you use oaklands

Australian · **Joined:** Mon Sep 12, 2011 2:40 pm **Posts:** 14

I prefer leg bands but to each his own the punch holes can heal over

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