Tagging Requirements
The tags used for double tagging are known as the primary and secondary tag.
The 'Primary' tag, may be inserted in either ear, must be made of yellow plastic and be at least 45 mm from top to bottom and at least 55 mm wide; the characters must be a minimum of 5 mm high. The primary tag must bear the symbol of a crown (the GB logo), the letters UK and the unique lifetime identification number.
The 'Secondary' tag may be of a range of approved materials and models, including metal, plastic 'button' type and other plastic type. It must contain the same information as the primary tag, but may also contain management information. The secondary tag must be in a different ear from the primary tag.
Since 1 April 1998 only yellow primary tags have been produced. All new born animals must be identified by these yellow primary tags.
The secondary tag may contain a microchip to allow electronic identification of the animal. However it is the number on the outside of the tag that is the official number. The microchip is not part of the official requirements.
Page published: 15 June 2011