Animal identification


Animal identification using external marks or internal identifiers is a process done to identify and track specific animals. It is done for a variety of reasons including verification of ownership, biosecurity control, and tracking for research or agricultural purposes.

History

Individual identification of animals by means of body markings has been practiced for over 3,800 years, as stated in Code of Hammurabi. The first official identification systems are documented as far as the 18th century. In Uruguay for instance maintained at that time a register of hot brands.

Noninvasive methods

Wildlife photo-identification

Biometrics

Birds

Sheep

  • Freeze branding
  • Branding
  • Collar
  • Earmarking
  • Ear tags
  • Ear tags
  • Semi-permanent paint

    Pigs

  • Collars
  • Earmarking
  • Ear tags
  • Ear tags
  • Semi-permanent paint
  • Tattoo

    Horses

  • Collars
  • Branding
  • Branding
  • Microchip implants
  • Lip tattoo

    Cattle

  • Anklets
  • Branding
  • Branding
  • Collars
  • Earmarking
  • Ear tags
  • Ear tags
  • Rumen bolus
  • Cowbell
  • Photo-identification of noses

    Dogs

  • Collar
  • Microchip implants
  • Tattoo

    Laboratory rodents

  • Earmarking
  • Ear tags
  • Microchip implants
  • Hair dye
  • Toe clipping
  • Manual tattoos
  • Automated tail tattoos

    Wild mammals

Bats