A durable marker attached to the ear of an animal to display a unique identification number, farm logo, or barcode. They are applied using specialized pliers that punch a pin through the cartilage. These markers are essential for tracking individual animal health, breeding records, and ownership across the herd.
Heard on the job
Grab the pliers, we've three calves that still need an ear tag before turnout.
Insider tip
Always punch the tag in the middle third of the ear between the cartilage ribs to avoid hitting major blood vessels.
Do not mix it up with
- Earmark: An ear tag is a physical object attached to the ear, whereas an earmark is a permanent notch or cut made into the ear tissue itself.