Ear Tags and Bands
Farmers use ear tags and bands to identify animals. These tools help keep track of cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Ear tags are popular because they are easy and cheap to use. Tags come in many shapes and sizes. Some tags have RFID technology, which helps with tracking. RFID tags last longer and can handle bad weather. Farmers can put special marks on tags using stamps or lasers.
Bands are also used to identify animals. People put leg bands on birds and poultry. Bands can be made of metal or plastic. They may have different colors to help sort animals. Both tags and bands make it easy to see which animal is which. But sometimes, tags and bands fall off. About 15% of ear tags get lost over time. RFID microchips stay in place much better, with a 99.5% rate. Farmers need to check tags often to make sure animals still have them.
Tip: Check tags and bands often to keep animal records correct and help manage the herd.