Record Keeping With Computers

There are probably as many different ways to keep records on the computer as there are bird keepers who keep computerized records. From programs built specifically for tracking the day-to-day work of an aviary to self-designed spread sheets and word documents, computer records can be tailored to the individual needs of the bird breeder.

For the novice breeder, or one with few pairs, then a spreadsheet or database containing the information works well. A spreadsheet for each pair, one to list all the babies, and then a word document for each bird, really holds all the information needed. Putting this all into one program is convenient, but not necessary.

It's been years since I used an actual computer program for keeping records, so I must confess that I really do not know much about that area. Any search engine with the keywords "bird software" or similar words should yield a good result. I have heard good things about My Birds from Birds 2 Grow http://www.birds2grow.com, but have not personally used it.

I use a series of spreadsheets. On the first, I list out my pairs, starting with pair number and the cage they are in, and then I identify the individual members of the pairs. My pairs have a spreadsheet that lists egg dates, hatch dates, banding dates, and band number. Oftentimes, I only record hatch dates and band number. Finally, I have a single spreadsheet where I list all my band numbers and chicks.

If computer records are kept, then backups should be kept. I recommend paper and disk backups to your files, just in case.

Record keeping is an important part of bird care and husbandry. It really doesn't matter how the records are kept, so long as they are.

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