If you raise cattle, bison, sheep, goats, or swine in Alabama, ear tag compliance is one of the most consequential animal health obligations you face. Get it wrong and you can face delayed sales, animals turned back at state lines, and potential fines. Get it right and you protect your herd, your markets, and your bottom line.
Which Animals Require Official Ear Tags in Alabama
Not every animal on your farm needs an official ear tag, but the rules are more far-reaching than many producers realize. Unless otherwise exempt, certain livestock must be officially identified for disease control purposes whenever a change of ownership occurs within the state of Alabama. Official identification is a method or device approved by the USDA-APHIS Administrator and the State Veterinarian that assigns a nationally unique number to an animal or group of animals traceable to the point of application or subsequent movement.
In the case of ear tags, the device must bear an official number, the U.S. shield, and be tamper-resistant. That language applies to all species covered under Alabama’s animal identification rules.
Here is a quick reference for which animals trigger the tagging requirement:
Official ID is required for cattle 18 months of age or older at change of ownership; all female dairy cattle; and cattle and bison used in rodeo, show, exhibition, or recreational events. Exemptions to the rule are cattle less than 18 months of age and cattle sold for slaughter purposes…