MANAGEMENT

Detailed explanation-1: -Ear notches are read with the litter number (right ear) first followed by the individual identification number (left ear) read second. Standard notches on the pig’s left ear are are the 1 notch located on the bottom of the ear near the pig’s head.

Detailed explanation-2: -The ear notching system is used because it is an inexpensive, permanent way to identify pigs and gives all pigs an individualized identification. There are a few disadvantages to the system such as the numbers can be misread and misplaced on the ears if not done carefully.

Detailed explanation-3: -Ear-notching helps identify a pig’s litter and which one of the litter it is, giving each pig a unique identity number. Notches are placed in one of five locations in the pig’s right ear-to show the litter number-and in one of three locations in the left ear-to show the individual pig number.

Detailed explanation-4: -Ear notching is a permanent method of pig identification. Whereas ear tags may be lost or damaged, ear notching remains in place to provide a unique identification for each animal.