livestock identification

What is identification in animal husbandry?

Tracks specific animals.

What are the uses of animal identification?

Medical records, breeding records, consumption, and farm records.

What are the two types of identification?

Permanent and temporary.

Which species are typically identified?

Cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and sometimes horses.

What tools are used to identify listed animals?

Tattoo and car tags (tattoos are preferred because they are permanent).

What does RFID stand for?

Radio Frequency Identification.

What are RFID electronic ear tags used for?

They trace animals and can be implanted under the skin or attached to the ear.

When did branding first appear?

2700 BC, as depicted in Egyptian tombs.

Why is branding important?

It proves ownership of lost or stolen animals and is highly visible and difficult to alter.

What must be included when registering brands?

At least 2 characters or shapes, location of the brand, and whether it is hot or freeze branding.

What is considered properly heated for hot branding?

An iron that is the color of ashes.

What is used in freeze branding?

Liquid nitrogen or dry ice and alcohol.

How does freeze branding affect hair follicles?

It freezes the hair follicles so that the hair grows back white.

What are some characteristics of reading brands?

Composed of capital letters, numbers, pictures, and characters; can be joined, upright, or combinations; read left to right, top to bottom, or enclosed outside in.