Animal ear tag
Animal identification
What is it?
RFID ear tags are attached to livestock ears for individual animal identification. They are the primary method of cattle, sheep, goat, and pig identification worldwide. LF ear tags conform to ISO 11784/11785 (the international animal identification standard) and are used for official government traceability programs. UHF ear tags are newer and allow longer-range group reading in yards and races.
How it works
A two-part tag (male and female button) is applied through the ear using an applicator tool, similar to ear piercing. The RFID transponder is in the female (back) button, encapsulated in polyurethane. LF tags use HDX (half-duplex) or FDX-B (full-duplex B) protocols per ISO 11785. The tag carries a unique 64-bit code that links to the animal in a national database. UHF ear tags add a second transponder with an EPC for longer-range reading.
Use cases
- National livestock traceability programs
- Cattle and dairy herd management
- Sheep and goat identification
- Pig production and traceability
- Wildlife research and conservation
- Veterinary record keeping
Pros
- Individual animal identification from birth to slaughter
- LF tags readable through mud, water, and tissue
- Conforms to international standards (ISO 11784/11785)
- Tamper-evident – difficult to transfer between animals
- Dual-frequency options (LF + UHF) for versatility
Cons
- Requires physical application through the ear
- Tags can be torn out (ear trauma)
- LF read range is short (30 cm)
- Must withstand years of sun, rain, mud, and animal behaviour
- Government-mandated programmes can be costly for farmers
Specifications
| Power type | Passive – powered by reader signal |
|---|---|
| Frequency | LF (134.2 kHz, ISO 11784/11785) or UHF (860–960 MHz) |
| Read range | LF: up to 30 cm; UHF: 3–10 m |
| Lifespan | 10+ years |
| Price range | $0.80–$5.00 per unit |
| Environmental rating | All-weather outdoor; UV and chemical resistant; -30°C to +70°C |