At hatch, microchips are inserted in the pipping muscle just behind the head with an implant gun and needle. Each brand of microchip requires its own reader. This avoids the difficulty of reading the chip while pointing the reader at the ostrich's face, which is usually a moving target. Leg bands are used for easy long-distance identification. These are usually placed above the hock or around the ankle.
Numbered bands are available in a variety of colors.
A good client-veterinarian relationship will be helpful if future veterinary treatment or consultation is needed. Most mortality occurs in birds less than 6 months old. This is why ostrich producers typically report both hatchability and livability of offspring. Omphalitis, or infected yolk sac, is a common disease of hatchlings. It has been treated by surgical removal of the yolk sac followed by antibiotic therapy.