An animal identification tag may seem like a simple piece of equipment. However, its quality directly affects herd traceability, ease of application, the legibility of the information, and the time spent on replacements.

An ill-fitting tag may come off, become illegible, or make tagging difficult. Therefore, the choice should not be based solely on the unit price. It must take into account the rearing conditions, the species, the duration of use, and the regulatory requirements of the relevant market.

1. Choose a size appropriate for the species

The anatomy of the ear and rearing conditions differ among cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs.

An ear tag designed for cattle may feature a large reading area. For sheep and goats, a lighter, more compact design may be necessary. In certain environments, a high-visibility ear tag also makes it easier to identify animals from a distance.

The supplier must be able to offer a variety of sizes, shapes, and assembly systems so that the solution is truly tailored to the animal.

2. Examine resistance and retention rates

The retention rate refers to a loop's ability to remain in place during its expected period of use.

A missing loop has several consequences:

  • the animal must be restrained again;
  • a replacement part must be ordered;
  • Identification information must be verified;
  • overtime is used;
  • the risk of error increases.

Durability depends, in particular, on the quality of the material, the shape of the buckle, its closure system, and its ability to withstand UV exposure, cold, moisture, friction, and impact.

ARDES reports a retention rate of 99.20%, based on a study of 4,300 ear tags fitted to 4,300 cattle at 60 farms.

[Internal link: Understanding the Retention Rate of Loops]

3. Check how easy it is to install

A good clasp must combine two characteristics that might seem contradictory: it must be easy to fasten while providing strong resistance once closed.

The grip and the buckle must be compatible. The action must be quick, precise, and require minimal effort. An improper grip or a poorly positioned buckle can slow down the procedure and increase the risk of injury.

It is therefore best to choose a line that includes clearly labeled clamps and accessories.

4. Consider the animal's comfort

The shape of the tip and the freedom of movement between the male and female parts affect the quality of healing.

A clean incision, proper positioning, and appropriate equipment minimize unnecessary friction. When selecting a loop, mechanical strength should never be prioritized over animal welfare: both factors must be taken into account from the design stage onward.

5. Choose a durable and legible label

The tag must remain legible under real-world conditions: dust, mud, rain, exposure to sunlight, and repeated handling.

Depending on your needs, various pieces of information can be entered:

  • individual number;
  • name of the farm;
  • barcode;
  • logo;
  • text;
  • color code.

Laser marking is particularly well-suited for information that needs to remain legible for a long time. A felt-tip pen offers greater flexibility for manual marking, while hot stamping produces a crisp, durable mark.

[Internal link: laser marking and customization]

6. Determine whether an RFID loop is necessary

An RFID tag allows the animal's identifier to be read without physical contact and enables that information to be linked to various devices.

It can be used with portable or stationary readers and integrated into weighing, sorting, or herd management operations.

The decision must take into account:

  • the RFID standard used;
  • compatibility with readers;
  • the rules applicable in the country;
  • the reading distance;
  • the software or management system used.

Devices certified by ICAR are tested according to procedures that focus, in particular, on their compliance with the ISO standards applicable to electronic identification.

[Internal link: Guide to RFID Animal Identification]

7. Evaluate the manufacturer’s support

The product is only part of the solution. We must also be able to rely on:

  • clear documentation;
  • selection tips;
  • compatible clamps;
  • a continuous supply;
  • customization options;
  • technical support;
  • knowledge of regulated markets.

A distributor or livestock organization must be able to rely on a manufacturer capable of meeting its commercial, technical, and regulatory requirements.

A complete product line manufactured in France

ARDES designs and manufactures visual and electronic ear tags in France for cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. The product line includes several sizes, tailored application systems, RFID solutions, and various customization options.

This expertise enables us to assist distributors, livestock professionals, and institutional organizations in selecting a solution tailored to their market.

Are you looking for a reliable identification loop or a custom solution?

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