Animal identification using a means of marking 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.
Individual identification of animals by means of body markings has been practised 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.
Leg rings
Wing tags
Microchip implants (parrots)
Telemetry (falconry birds)
Freeze branding
Branding (hot-iron)
Collar
Earmarking
Ear tags (non-electronic)
Ear tags (electronic)
Semi-permanent paint
Collars (electronic and non-electronic)
Earmarking
Ear tags (non-electronic)
Ear tags (electronic)
Semi-permanent paint
Tattoo
Collars (non-electronic)
Branding (hot-iron)
Branding (freeze)
Microchip implants
Lip tattoo
Anklets
Branding (freeze)
Branding (hot-iron)
Collars (electronic and non-electronic)
Earmarking
Ear tags (non-electronic)
Ear tags (electronic)
Rumen bolus (electronic)
Cowbell
Collar
Microchip implants
Tattoo
Earmarking (notching or punching)
Ear tags (nickel, copper or scannable 2D barcode tags)
Microchip implants
Hair dye
Toe clipping
Manual tattoos (tail, foot pad or ears)
Automated tail tattoos
Microchip implants
Fin clipping
Coded wire tag
Passive integrated transponder
Acoustic tag
Transponders
Adhesive tags
Adhesive tags
Semi-permanent paint
