What is the purpose of ear tagging livestock?

The primary purpose of ear tagging livestock is to identify animals. Each tag typically carries a unique number or code that allows farmers and livestock handlers to easily distinguish one animal from another. This identification is crucial for various management practices, such as tracking health records, breeding information, and individual animal performance.

Effective identification through ear tags aids in maintaining herd records, facilitating communication about specific animals, and ensuring proper care tailored to each animal's needs. Having a clear identification system helps in the event of loss or theft, as well as during transportation, showing at fairs, or in veterinary situations where accurate records are necessary.

The other options, while relevant to livestock management in other contexts, do not pertain to the primary function of ear tags. Weak links to pest control, weight gain, or mobility do not align with the fundamental role of ear tags in livestock management.