Comparison of Feather Damage Associated With the Application of Pressure-sensitive Adhesive Tapes

Pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes are commonly used for the positioning of birds for radiography and securing bandages. The effect of 5 common tapes on feather structure was investigated with before-and-after comparisons. Each tape demonstrated a characteristic pattern of damage to the feather vane that involved separation of barbules and/or tearing of barbs. Tapes with rigid backing materials and strong adhesives were more likely to cause tearing and barbule separation, respectively, whereas flexible tapes with limited adhesion to feathers were more successful in securing feathers without causing irreparable damage. Consideration should be given to the appropriate selection of tape applied to the feathers of birds to prevent iatrogenic damage to their plumage.