Which term refers to permanent marking of animals?

Which term refers to permanent marking of animals?

• A. Ear notching
• B. Branding
• C. Microchip
• D. Identification

Answer: (B)

Branding is the prolonged, visible mark applied to an animal’s hide that stays for life. It uses a hot or cold brand iron (or a chemical brand) to make a permanent, recognizable mark tied to ownership or herd identity. Ear notching is also permanent but is a specific method used mainly in pigs and isn’t the general term for permanent exterior marking. A microchip provides a permanent ID but is implanted under the skin and isn’t a visible mark on the animal. Identification is the broad category that includes all methods, but branding specifically denotes the permanent, external mark.

Branding is the prolonged, visible mark applied to an animal’s hide that stays for life. It uses a hot or cold brand iron (or a chemical brand) to make a permanent, recognizable mark tied to ownership or herd identity. Ear notching is also permanent but is a specific method used mainly in pigs and isn’t the general term for permanent exterior marking. A microchip provides a permanent ID but is implanted under the skin and isn’t a visible mark on the animal. Identification is the broad category that includes all methods, but branding specifically denotes the permanent, external mark.