Top Banner
Rules for identifying Sheep and Goats January 2010 Guidance for Keepers www.cymru.gov.uk
42

Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

Oct 22, 2015

Download

Documents

Squinkle

Rules for identifying Sheep and Goats
herd registration
Welcome message from author
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Page 1: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

Rules for identifying Sheep and Goats

January 2010

Guidance for Keepers

www.cymru.gov.uk

Page 2: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

ISBN 978 0 7504 5537 4© Crown copyright February 2010 CMK-22-01-184E7350910

Page 3: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

i

New rules will apply from 31 December 2009, to the identification and record keeping requirements for sheep and goats.

These changes are the final phase of implementing Council Regulation 21/2004 that introduces a European wide system for the identification and registration of sheep and goats, implemented through Sheep and Goats (Records, Identification and Movement) (Wales) Order 2009.

This booklet replaces earlier guidance issued in 2008 and explains the rules that will apply in Wales from 31 December 2009. Similar guidance is being issued in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Please note that differences may exist between the various regions.

The booklet focuses on the rules that apply to lambs born on or after 31 December 2009 but, where appropriate, covers the differences for older sheep born before 31 December 2009 and goats.

For more information website: www.wales.gov.uk/animalhealth email: [email protected]

Contact: - 01267 245022

Animal Health Divisional Offices, addresses are listed in Annex B

Carmarthen 01267 245400 Caernarfon 01286 674144 Cardiff 02920 768500

Rural Payments Divisional Offices, addresses are listed in Annex B

Carmarthen 01267 225300 Caernarfon 01286 674144 Llandrindod Wells 01597 823777

Local Authorities

Contact telephone numbers and email addresses are listed in Annex B

Introduction

Page 4: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

ii

Page 5: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

Section OneWhat are the main changes? 1

Section Two - Keeper/LandWho is a keeper? 3What is a holding? 3Registering land and obtaining a flock number 3 The 5 mile rule 4Sole Occupancy Authority (SOA) 5

Section ThreeIdentification 7Identifiers available 7Slaughter Derogation 8Upgrading lambs originally intended for slaughter 8Lost or illegible tags 8Metal tags 9EID Bolus 9Tattoo 9

Flowchart 1: Identification - lambs born on or after 10 31 December 2009Flowchart 2: Identification - sheep born before 12 31 December 2009Flowchart 3: Replacement tagging procedure for sheep born 14 on or after 31 December 2009Flowchart 4a & b: Replacement tagging procedures for sheep born 16 before 31 December 2009

iii

Contents

Page 6: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

iv

Section FourFlock record keeping 19

Section FiveMovements 21

Section SixInspections 24

Section SevenGoats 26

Glossary of Terms 27

Annex AAdvice on how to correctly identify animals to reduce the risk of injury, distress and infection 31

Annex BList of contact details for: Local Authority 33Animal Health Offices 35Rural Payments Divisional Offices 36

Page 7: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

1

Sectio

n one

Section One - What are the main changes?

Identification of Lambs born on or after 31 December 2009 Detailed information in Section Three (Sheep): Seven (Goats).

• ALL breeding lambs and store and finished hoggets kept beyond 12 months of age must have full EID i.e. one electronic identifier and one visual identifier. The electronic identifier can either be an ear tag, a ruminal bolus or a pastern mark.

• Lambs intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir before reaching 12 months of age can be identified with a single conventional batch slaughter tag or with a single electronic batch slaughter tag.

• The single conventional batch slaughter tag will not be electronic and will only have “UK” and a holding of birth (HoB) flock number printed on it.

• The single electronic batch slaughter tag will contain an official EID number in the electronic chip but will have “UK” and a holding of birth (HoB) flock number printed on it.

Farmers are advised to discuss the tagging options with the marketing outlets that they intend to supply.

Recording of sheep or goats born on or after 31 December 2009 Detailed information in Section Four (Sheep); Seven (Goats)

Flock/herd record• Lambs and kids born on or after 31 December must be recorded in your flock record

when you first identify them. Even though goats are not subject to compulsory full EID, their individual identity must be recorded in the herd record.

• For sheep identified with ‘full EID’ a record of the individual number that is printed on the outside of the tag or which can be read electronically from the chip (it is the same number) will be required in the flock record.

• For store and finished lambs or goat kids identified with a single batch slaughter tag (conventional or electronic), a record of the number of lambs/kids tagged will be required in the flock/herd record.

• For goats identified with either conventional double tags or voluntary full EID, record the individual identity printed on the outside of the tag.

Movement document (AML1)• Sheep and goats born on or after 31 December 2009 will have to be individually

recorded on movement documents from 1 January 2011. However, there are several exceptions to this rule. For details see section Four and Five.

Page 8: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

2

Sec

tio

n o

neCentral Point Recording Centre (third party recording)• Allows keepers to use an approved “central point recording centre” where available,

to undertake the reading of individual identifiers off their holding e.g. at a market or abattoir.

AML1 Movement Documents• All sheep born before 31 December 2009 will have to be individually1 recorded

on movement documents from 31 December 2011, unless moving to slaughter, either direct or via market. For details see sections four, five and seven.

1 Sheep tagged prior to February 2003 without an individual identification will need to be retagged before moving off the holding they are on. See flowchart 2.

Page 9: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

3

Sectio

n two

Section Two - Keeper/Land

Who is a keeper?

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 states ‘a person who owns an animal shall always be regarded as being a person who is responsible for it.’

Whilst owners are usually the person responsible for their livestock, they may agree to another person being delegated responsibility and that person becomes responsible for movement reporting and record keeping purposes.

What is a holding?

A holding is a place where farmed livestock are kept or handled. Farms, livestock markets, collection centres and slaughterhouses are examples of holdings and are identified by the County/Parish/Holding (CPH) numbering system.

Some keepers may have more than one holding and some holdings will be used by more than one keeper.

Registering land and obtaining a flock number

All land where sheep are kept must be registered even if you only own a single pet animal (land includes buildings in this context).

If you are a new sheep or goat keeper you must: -

• Register your holding with the Rural Payments Divisional Offices within one month of first keeping animals, they will allocate you a CPH (County/Parish/Holding) number.

• Contact your local Animal Health Divisional Office (AHDO) who will allocate you a flock (sheep) or herd (goat) mark for your holding. This flock or herd mark is required before you will be able to buy officially numbered ear tags or electronic identifiers.

If you have any questions about how your land is registered contact your local Rural Payments divisional office in the first instance.

Page 10: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

4

Sec

tio

n tw

oThe 5 mile rule

Flock Record Movements

Land within 5 miles of the boundary of the main holding and under your sole management and control can be considered to be part of the holding*.

One flock record for all land

Movements between parcels of land within this holding do not need to be recorded in the flock record or reported via a movement document.

Land within 5 miles of the boundary of the main holding and not under your sole management and control can not be considered to be part of the holding*.

Separate flock records for each CPH

Movements between these holdings need to be recorded in the flock records and reported via a movement document.

Land outside 5 miles of the boundary of the main holding regardless of it being under your sole management and control can not be considered to be part of the holding*, (even if included in a SOA)*.

Separate flock records for each CPH

Movements between these holdings must be recorded in the relevant flock records and reported via a movement document. The minimum requirement is on a batch basis where the ownership remains the same.

*You will need a CPH number for any parcels of land that are not already registered, please contact your Rural Payments Divisional Office.

Page 11: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

5

Sectio

n two

Sole Occupancy Authority (SOA)

Holdings can be grouped into a SOA subject to Animal Health approval.

SOA is a group of holdings within the same management and control, which are linked solely for the purposes of disease control and the 6 day standstill rule.

Movements onto SOA Movements within SOA Movements off SOA

Any animal movements onto a holding that is part of your SOA, triggers a 6 day standstill on all holdings.

Any animal movements between holdings that are part of your SOA, will not trigger a 6 day standstill.

No animal movements can take place off a holding that is part of your SOA, if it is under a 6 day standstill.

Movement reporting for sheep is required between holdings as defined by the 5 mile rule, irrespective of a SOA. This means that a movement document (AML1) will need to be submitted to Local Authorities for:

• all movements within 5 miles where you do not have sole management and control of the land;

• all movements within 5 miles where you do have sole management and control but holdings have a different CPH;

• all movements outside 5 miles.

Contact your Animal Health Divisional Office if you want to apply for a SOA.

Page 12: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

6

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Page 13: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

7

Sectio

n three

Section Three - Identification

Identification requirements and replacement of lost and illegible identifiers

Lambs born on your holding must be identified before they move off the holding of birth or before they reach

• 6 months of age for sheep kept under intensive husbandry systems.

• 9 months of age for sheep kept under extensive husbandry systems.

There are a variety of identifiers available for full EID. These include ear tags, bolus and pastern marks which can be combined with ear tag, tattoo or pastern mark. The following combinations are allowed: -

EID Identifier Conventional IdentifierAllowed for Intra-Community Trade

EID Ear tag Conventional Ear tag Yes

EID Ear tag Tattoo No

EID BolusConventional Ear tag/Pastern mark must be

Yes

EID Ear tag Conventional Pastern mark Yes

EID Pastern mark Conventional Ear tag No

Both EID and conventional identifiers must carry the same number. Tags can be read either manually or electronically as preferred.

The following colours have been reserved for specific devices:-

- used only for EID tags (including the batch electronic slaughter tag)

- used only for replacement tags (both conventional and replacement EID tags)

- used only for the conventional ear tag/pastern mark where an electronic ruminal bolus is present

The numbers and letters on all identification devices must be a different colour to the background of the device and must be clearly readable. If you choose to include Management/Breed Society information on the tags, discuss with the tag supplier.

black

Yellow

Black

Red

Page 14: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

8

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Slaughter derogation

Lambs born on or after 31 December 2009 that are intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir before reaching 12 months of age can be identified with full EID or:

• A single conventional batch slaughter tag - displays “UK” and a flock number.

• A single electronic batch slaughter tag - displays “UK” and a flock number but has an official electronic chip with an individual number within the tag.

Upgrading of lambs originally intended for slaughter

Lambs identified with a slaughter tag (conventional or electronic batch tag), where traceability cannot be proved must be slaughtered before they reach 12 months of age.

Lambs identified with a slaughter tag (conventional or electronic batch tag), where traceability can be proved maybe upgraded to full EID by the time they reach 12 months of age. See Table below:

If lambs to be upgraded are:

Action Required

Still on the holding of birth

• slaughter tag should be cut out• replace with full EID • Record in “upgrade section” of flock record

No longer on their holding of birth

These lambs can only be upgraded where complete traceability* can be achieved.

• slaughter tag should be cut out• replace with full EID (red replacements)• Record in “upgrade section” of flock record and cross reference with the original flock mark.

* Every holding that each lamb has been on from birth must be recorded in the flock record

Further advice is available from Animal Health/Local Authorities/Rural Payments Divisional Offices.

Lost or illegible tags

If your animal loses its identifier or the identifier becomes impossible to read, you must replace it:

• within 28 days of the loss or damage being noticed; or

• before the animals are moved from your holding (if sooner).

(See flowcharts)

Page 15: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

9

Sectio

n three

Metal tags

The removal of metal tags is allowed for replacement purposes providing the welfare of the animal is not compromised2.

EID Bolus

If the black ear tag/pastern mark is lost the sheep must be re-tagged with a “like-for-like” (same number) black tag/pastern mark, so that the number of the replacement black tag/pastern mark still corresponds with the number of the ruminal bolus.

If the bolus is presumed lost or can no longer be read, a “like-for-like” EID bolus is to be administered.

Presumed absence or the non-functioning of a bolus should be established with multiple read attempts on different days.

WEGS bolus are not official EID identifiers for livestock identification purposes3.

Tattoo

A tattoo can be used as the visual identifier where animals are not involved in intra community trade.

The full identification number can be divided between both ears (i.e. “UK” + a flock number in one ear and an individual animal number in the other ear).

2 You are advised to consult your Private Veterinary Surgeon.3 The use of more than one electronic identifier is not recommended.

Page 16: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

10

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Flowchart 1 together with details opposite, explains how to identify lambs born on or after 31 December 2009

Lambs that are:Retained or

Sold for Breedingor Kept beyond

12 months of age

Store / finishedlambs

retained beyond12 months

of age

Store / finishedlambs

to be slaughteredbefore reaching

12 months of age

Two identicallynumbered identifiers,one conventional and

one electronic

Single batchconventionalslaughter tag

Single batchelectronic

slaughter tag

Full EIDUK 0555555 44444If read electronically

0826 0555555 44444

Slaughter TagUK 555555

Slaughter TagUK 555555

If readelectronically

0826 0555555 44444

Page 17: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

11

Sectio

n threeFull EID

This requires two identifiers, one electronic and one visual.

• The electronic identifier can be an ear tag, ruminal bolus or for sheep remaining within the UK a pastern mark.

• The visual identifier can be an ear tag, pastern mark or for sheep remaining within the UK a tattoo.

• The individual number on both identifiers will be identical and must be recorded in the flock record.

Breeding lambs

Lambs born on or after 31 December 2009 that will be retained as flock replacements or sold for breeding must be identified electronically (full EID) and recorded individually in the flock record.

All lambs including pets, kept beyond 12 months of age

Store and finished hoggets intended for slaughter but kept beyond 12 months of age, sheep reared for mutton and pets must be identified electronically (full EID) and recorded individually in the flock record.

Live exports

Lambs born on or after 31 December 2009 that will be exported live must be identified electronically (full EID) and recorded individually in the flock record.

Slaughter Derogation - Store and finished lambs slaughtered before reaching 12 months of age

Lambs born on or after 31 December 2009 that are intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir before reaching 12 months of age can be identified with full EID or: -

• A single conventional batch slaughter tag - displays “UK” and a flock number.

• A single electronic batch slaughter tag - displays “UK” and a flock number but has an official electronic chip with an individual number within the tag.

You are advised to discuss tagging options with the marketing outlets that you normally supply.

Page 18: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

12

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Flowchart 2: together with details opposite, explain how sheep born before 31 December 2009 were identified

Identified from

22 January 2008 to

30 December 2009

Two identicallynumbered

conventional tags

Double tagsUK 555555 444444

Identified from

February 2003 to

21 January 2008

Oneconventional

tag

Single tagUK 555555 444444

Identified before

February 2003

Oneconventional

tag

Single tagUK J1234-11

or J1234 4567or UK555555

Single tagUK 555555 444444

Double tagsUK 555555 444444

Retag when movingoff a holding

Full EID UK 0555555 44444

If read electronically0826 0 555555 44444

Page 19: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

13

Sectio

n threeSheep born between February 2003 and 30 December 2009 should already be identified in accordance with the rules that applied when they were born. Their existing identification will continue to be accepted until the sheep dies or the identification is lost or becomes unreadable.

Sheep born before February 2003 where there is no individual identification number or a “UK”

Sheep without individual identification, born before February 2003, were commonly identified with eartags that did not contain an individual number or the letters UK. These sheep will have to be re-identified with an individual numbered tag before they move off the holding they are currently on.

Keepers can either:

1. Retag with a single UK Holding of Birth (HoB) tag with an individual number or a RED replacement tag with an individual number if not on the HoB and record in the flock record.

Or

2. Retag with a new pair of UK HoB tags with identical individual number or a RED replacement tags with identical individual numbers if not on the HoB and record in the flock record.

Or

3. Retag with full EID or RED replacement full EID if not on the HoB and record in the flock record.

However, if the sheep is not on it’s holding of birth, own flock number RED replacement tags must be used.

You do not have to electronically identify sheep born before 31 December 2009.

Keepers may choose to replace the current identification of sheep in the existing flock with electronic identification. If they do

• sheep that are still on their HoB, the replacement tags do not need to be cross referenced in the Flock Records on an individual basis. The re-tagging event must be recorded by date, number of the existing flock that have been re-identified and the individual numbers used i.e. UK 0 555555 44440 to UK 0 555555 44450.

• sheep that are not on their holding of birth must use RED Full EID replacements, an individual cross reference is required for each animal i.e. UK 555555 333333 - UK 0 555555 44442.

Page 20: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

14

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Flowchart 3 together with details opposite, explains the replacement tagging procedure for sheep born on or after 31 December 2009

Still on the holding of birth

NOT on the holding of birth

Identifiedwith

Full EID

Identifiedwith

slaughter tag

Identifiedwith

Full EID

Identifiedwith

slaughter tag

If 1 identifier is lost

Replace withIdentical number

to the one lostOR

Cut out remainingidentifier and

replace with a new set of Full EID

(cross reference in flock record)

If 1 identifier is lost

Replace withIdentical number

to the one lostOR

Cut out remainingidentifier and replace with

a new set of RED replacements

Full EID(cross reference in flock record)

If both identifiers are lost:

replace with a new set of Full EID (cross reference in

flock record) OR

Replace with an identical pair to those lost

(if known)

Replace witha single

(conventional orelectronic) batch

slaughter tag

To beslaughtered

beforereaching

12 monthsof age

To beslaughtered

beforereaching

12 monthsof age

If both identifiers are lost, replacewith like-for-like

(if known) or replacewith a new set of

RED Full EID(cross reference in

flock record)

Replace withdifferent numbered

RED replacement single(conventional or electronic)

batch slaughter tagand cross reference change

of identification inflock record

*Cross reference means recording the old identifcationnumber against the new identification number

If both tags are lost or a single tag was used originally,cross referencing may not be possible but a record ofthe replacements must be made in the flock record

Page 21: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

15

Sectio

n threeReplacement tagging - sheep born on or after 31 December 2009

Where an identifier is lost, damaged or unreadable, it must be

• replaced within 28 days of the loss or damage being discovered

or

• before the animal is moved from your holding, if sooner.

Full EID

Sheep identified with full EID will always need a pair of identifiers with the same individual number, one of which needs to be electronic. Keepers can either:

1. Replace with a like-for-like replacement (same individual number) whether on the HoB or not.

or

2. if sheep are on the HoB, cut out the remaining tag and replace with a new pair of full EID identifiers and cross-reference this in the flock record.

or

3. if sheep are not on the HoB, cut out the remaining tag and replace with a new pair of full EID RED replacement identifiers and cross-reference this in the flock record.

Slaughter tags

Lambs identified with a single batch (conventional or electronic) slaughter tag can be retagged as follows:

Lambs on the holding of birth

Replace with another batch slaughter tag from stock, same flock number.

Lambs not on the holding of birth

Replace with own flock number RED replacement (conventional or electronic) slaughter tag and cross-reference this in the flock record.

Page 22: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

16

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Flowchart 4a together with details overleaf, explains replacement tagging procedure for sheep born before 31 December 2009 still on their holding of birth

Still on the holding of birth

If 1 UK HoB tag lost replace with:

an identical UK HoB tag

OR Cut out the

remaining UK tag andreplace with a pair ofdifferent numbered

UK HoB tags or Full EID

Replace withSingle Identical

UK HoB tagOR

Single different numberedUK HoB tag

ORa pair of different

numbered UKHoB tags or

Full EID

If both UK HoB tags are lost at the same time,

replace with a pair of different numbered

UK HoB tag or Full EID

Identified with Double tags

UK 555555 444444UK 555555 444444

Identified with Single tag

UK 555555 444444

Identified beforeFebruary 2003

e.g. UK J1234-11or J1234 4567 or UK 555555

Page 23: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

17

Sectio

n threeFlowchart 4b together with details below/overleaf, explains replacement tagging procedure for sheep born before 31 December 2009 not on their holding of birth

Flowchart 4a and b with details below/overleaf, explains replacement tagging procedure for sheep born before 31 December 2009

Where an identifier is lost, damaged or unreadable, it must be replaced within 28 days of the loss or damage being discovered or before the animal is moved from your holding, if sooner.

Not on theholding of birth

If 1 tag lost replace with:

an identical UK HoB tag OR

Cut out the remaining UK tag andreplace with a pair of different

numbered RED replacement tags(cross reference*)

ORRED Full EID Replacements

(cross reference*)

Replace withSingle Identical UK HoB tag

ORSingle different numbered

RED replacement tag(cross reference*)

ORa pair of different

numbered RED replacement tags(cross reference*)

ORRED Full EID Replacements

(cross reference*)

If both UK tags are lost at the same time, replace with a pair ofdifferent numbered

RED replacement tags (cross reference*)

ORRED Full EID Replacements

(cross reference*)

*Cross reference means recording the oldidentification number against the new

identification number. If both tags are lost or asingle tag was used originally, cross referencing

may not be possible but a record of thereplacements must be made in the flock record

Identified with Double tags UK 555555

444444

Identified with Single tag UK 555555

444444

Identified beforeFebruary 2003

e.g. UK J1234-11or J1234 4567 or UK 555555

Page 24: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

18

Double tagged

Sheep identified with a pair of UK HoB tags will always need two tags or identifiers with the same individual number.

Keepers can either:

1. Replace with a like-for-like replacement (same individual number).

Or

2. Cut out the remaining tag and replace with a new pair of UK HoB tags.

Or

3. Replace with full EID.

If the sheep is not on the holding of birth, the different numbered replacement tags must be RED in colour and must be cross-referenced in the flock record.

Where both tags are lost a full cross reference may not be possible but you will need to note that replacements have been used in the flock record.

Single tagged sheep

Sheep first identified before 22 January 2008 have used a number of different single tags.

Keepers can either:

1. Replace with a single like-for-like replacement UK HoB tag (same individual number).

Or

2. Replace with a single differently numbered UK same HoB tag.

Or

3. Replace with a new pair of UK same HoB tags.

Or

4. Replace with full EID.

If the sheep is not on it’s holding of birth, the replacement tags must be RED in colour and must be cross referenced in the flock record.

Where the previous identity of a sheep is unknown you will need to note that replacements have been used in the flock record.

Existing stocks of eartags that contain UK and an individual number can be used to reidentify older sheep that were single tagged before 22 January 2008.

Sec

tio

n th

ree

Page 25: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

19

Sectio

n four

Section Four - Record Keeping

Recording requirements in the flock record for sheep born before 31 December 2009. Keepers must keep a record of: -

• The identification code (CPH) of the holding.

• The address of the holding and the geographical coordinates (OS 6 digit map reference) or equivalent indication of the geographical location of the holding.

• The type of production.

• The numbers recorded in the latest inventory and the date on which it was carried out.

• The name and address of the keeper.

• In the case of animals leaving the holding:

• The name of the transporter.

• The registration number of the transport carrying the animals.

• The CPH number or name and address of the holding of destination or, in case of animals moved to a slaughterhouse, the identification code or name of the slaughterhouse and the date of departure,

- This information may be held as a duplicate or a certified copy of the AML1 movement document. These documents must be kept in chronological order.

Movements off the holding only

- The AML1 document may be retained by keepers as an alternative to completing records of OFF movements in their holding registers.

• In the case of animals arriving at the holding, the identification code (CPH) of the holding from which the animal was moved from and the date of arrival.

• Information on any replacement of identification.

For sheep born on or after 31 December 2009, the following additional information must be recorded4:

• The full individual identification number of the animal;

• The holding of birth, year of birth and the date the animal was identified;

• The month and year of death;

• The breed and (if known) genotype.

4 Annex B2 Council Regulation 21/2004.

Page 26: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

20

For animals identified from 2010 under the slaughter derogation, this information must be provided for each batch of animals having the same identification and must include the number of animals.

Full records must be retained for each sheep, as far back as their birth and for at least 3 years from the date they move off or die.

Carcase Disposal

The Animal By-Products Regulation requires keepers to maintain records of disposal of sheep that die5.

• carcases can only be disposed of via approved Animal by-Product premises.

A flock record book has been prepared by Welsh Assembly Government and can be viewed at (www.wales.gov.uk/animalhealth). Copies can be obtained from each Rural Payment Divisional Office, from Animal Health offices or from Local Authorities.

Individual identification lists can be appended to any of the sections in the flock book. i.e. list of individual identified animals presented at a CPRC.

It is not compulsory to use the flock record book available. If other methods of record keeping is preferred i.e. computerised records, they must record the same required information as provided for by the Welsh Assembly Government flock record book.

5 Chapter II, Article 9 Council Regulation 1774/2002. Sec

tio

n fo

ur

Page 27: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

21

Sectio

n five

Section Five - Movements

Individual recording on movement documents and flock records will begin on different dates for sheep born before 31 December 2009 compared with those born on or after 31 December 2009.

Minimum information required on movement documents (AML1) and flock records.

Sheep bornMovements during 2010

Movements during 2011

Movements during 2012 and onwards

before 31/12/09

Total number of sheep moved

Total number of sheep moved

Total number of sheep moved

Total number of sheep moved

Full Individual UK number unless moving to slaughter, either direct or via market e.g. UK0741236 00001 Total number of sheep moved

on or after 31/12/09 Full EID

Total number of sheep moved

Full Individual UK number e.g. UK0741236 00001

Full Individual UK numbere.g. UK0741236 00001

Full Individual UK number e.g. UK0741236 00001

Full Individual UK numbere.g. UK0741236 00001

Full Individual UK number e.g. UK0741236 00001

on or after 31/12/09 Single batch slaughter taglambs to be slaughtered under 12 months of age in an UK abattoir.

Total number of lambs moved.The total number of lambs identified with each different flock number recorded e.g. UK741234 x 24;

UK741235 x 26 Total lambs moved 50

The total number of lambs movedThe total number of lambs moved with each different flock number recorded. e.g. UK741234 x 24;

UK741235 x 26 Total lambs moved 50

The total number of lambs movedThe total number of lambs moved with each different flock number recorded. e.g. UK741234 x 24; UK741235 x 26 Total lambs moved 50

BLUE - MOVEMENT DOCUMENT RED - FLOCK RECORD

Page 28: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

22

Sec

tio

n fi

veAs an exception to the table overleaf, where the ownership does not change:Where sheep move from one holding (CPH) to another but the ownership of the animals does not change, the minimum information required on the AML1 movement document and flock record is the number of sheep moved.

The AML1 document may be retained by keepers as an alternative to completing records of OFF movements in their holding registers

Central Point Recording Centres (CPRC)

Where individual identities are required, keepers can batch record the movement off the holding and on a movement document and use the services of an approved “Central Point Recording Centre”, where available, to read and record the individual identities when the sheep arrive at those premises (e.g. markets and abattoirs).

It remains the responsibility of the keeper to provide the relevant identities (individual or flock mark) on the movement document and in the flock record, as explained in the table overleaf.

When the owner/keeper chooses to use a CPRC service, the following procedure applies:

• Keeper batch records in his/her flock record and on AML1,

• CPRC reads individual identities and counts total number of sheep received,

• CPRC provides identities and count to the keeper within 48 hrs,

• Keeper inserts identities in his record or cross references the document provided by the CPRC to his record.

Any location can apply to Animal Health to become an approved Central Point Recording Centre for the purposes of reading individual identities of sheep. Separate guidance is being prepared detailing the procedures for prospective CPRCs.

Paper movement documents - AML1 forms

AML 1 forms are available from Local Authority offices. The latest version of the movement document can be viewed at www.wales.gov.uk/animalhealth

Completed movement documents must be returned to the Local Authority of the destination premises within 3 days of the movement taking place.

Page 29: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

23

Sectio

n five

Common Land

Animals must be identified before they leave their birth holding and movements to and from common land recorded in your flock/herd register and a movement document (AML1) completed.

If your holding adjoins registered common land which you use for grazing, you can apply to have your holding “linked” to that common land on the central computer database. This will exempt you from completing movement documents and updating your flock register every time your animals move directly between your holding and the common land.

You can move animals between common land and any holding with grazing rights to the common land. You must record these movements in your home holding register and also complete a movement document. However, if you are going to move animals off the common land to any other holding, including a market, you must first make sure that no other animals at all have moved onto the common land in the past six days. Animals cannot be consigned direct for intra-community trade from common land.

Food Chain Information

From 1 January 2010 all abattoir operators will be required to “request, receive, check and act upon” food chain information (FCI) for all sheep received at slaughterhouses. The new rules apply to abattoirs across Great Britain.

Sheep producers will need to provide FCI when supplying sheep directly or indirectly to slaughterhouses after 1 January 2010.

• The FCI required will include the identification of the animal or batch of animals, whether or not the veterinary medicine withdrawal periods for the animals concerned have been adhered to and the disease status of the animals going for slaughter.

Provision has been made to include FCI for sheep on the new animal movement license for sheep (AML1).The front of the new AML1 will include a tick box with a corresponding FCI statement on the reverse of the pink copy of the license. If the sheep/lambs being taken for slaughter satisfy the FCI statement keepers are only required to tick the box. If the animals do not satisfy the FCI statement then keepers must tick the box and complete the additional information proforma included on the reverse of the pink copy of the AML1. Please note FCI is only required for animals going for slaughter. If keepers/farmers are moving store animals, sheep for breeding etc they need do nothing more than complete the AML1 as normal. Existing stocks of AML1 can be used for this purpose. Farmers/keepers are advised to request copies of the new AML1 from their local authority from January 2010 should they wish to move sheep/lambs to slaughter.

For additional information on the FCI legislative requirements please contact the Food Standards Agency on 029 2067 8908. For any other information please contact the Farm Liaison Service at Divisional Offices.

Page 30: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

24

Sec

tio

n si

x

Section Six - Inspections

Spot checks are carried out to ensure that keepers are complying with all sheep and goat identification and registration requirements.

Commission Regulation (EC) No 1505/2006 sets out the detailed rules:

• Each EU Member State (MS) shall carry out checks annually that covers at least 3% of holdings comprising at least 5% of the animals (sheep and goats) in the Member State;

• The holdings are selected by risk analysis, the criteria for which are set out in the Regulation. The inspections must be unannounced - maximum 48 hours notice;

• An annual report on the inspection results must be sent to the Commission’s DG SANCO by 31 August each year.

How are farms selected for inspection?

Inspections for Wales are undertaken by the Rural Inspectorate for Wales (RIW) through predominately risk based criteria. The selection takes into account a number of factors such as time since last inspection, number of sheep (and or goats) on holding, errors found in previous inspections, etc. Keepers should be aware that they are likely to be inspected more frequently if problems were found during a previous inspection.

What is the keeper expected to do?

The keeper will be responsible for presenting all animals and documentation (including electronic records) for inspection. The keeper will also be asked to provide suitable handling facilities and to present the animals in a safe manner for ear tag/identifier checking.

Full records, as far back as birth, must be retained for each sheep for 3 years from the date they move off the holding or die.

What will the inspector do?

The inspector will undertake:

• A full head count of the sheep on the selected holding;

• A physical check of identifiers on a sample of sheep. The sample may be increased if discrepancies are identified such as sheep that are incorrectly identified or have never been identified at all;

• A check of the flock record entries, including

• date(s) of identification,

• movements/deaths,

Page 31: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

25

Sectio

n six• that it contains the Annual Inventory figure(s) and that this correlates to the

return submitted by 1 February each year;

• A check of all AML1 movement licences; These documents must be kept in chronological order.

• That all unused tags are securely stored.

How long will the inspection take?

This depends on the size of your holding, the number of sheep involved and the quality of your record keeping. Records that are set out clearly and accurately will significantly reduce the inspection time. The aim will be to carry out the inspection quickly and efficiently with the minimum of disruption.

Enforcement action

If discrepancies are found during the inspection, it may be necessary to impose a whole flock/herd movement restriction on the holding. The restriction prohibits the movement of animals from and onto the holding. In all cases the restriction will remain until corrective action has been carried out and which may require a follow-up inspection to take place.

Penalties

Discrepancies may involve a reduction in your Single Payment Scheme.

Inspections by other enforcement agencies

Local Authority (LA) Trading Standards Officers have responsibility for enforcing the sheep and goat Identification requirements. In addition to farm visits they carry out checks on markets and roadside stops to check compliance with a variety of livestock related legislation.

Animal Health officers have responsibility for Animal Welfare cross compliance checks.

Page 32: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

26

Section Seven - Goats

The rules for identifying goats are not changing but goat keepers will be required to keep individual records for goats born on or after 31 December 2009, in a herd record unless identified with a slaughter tag (see below), when a batch record is required.

There is no requirement to electronically identify goats as the UK goat population is currently below the regulatory threshold of 160,000.

When to Identify

As with sheep, goats born on your holding must be appropriately identified before they move off the holding or within the following deadlines.

• 6 months from the date of birth for goats kept under intensive husbandry systems.

• 9 months from the date of birth for goats kept under extensive husbandry systems.

Double tags (non-electronic) will remain unchanged showing a “UK” Herd number and a six digit individual number.

There are a range of identifiers available that includes ear tags, tattoos and pastern marks. The following combinations are allowed:

• Conventional ear tag - Conventional ear tag

• Conventional ear tag - Tattoo

• Conventional ear tag - Pastern Mark

However, keepers can choose to use electronic identification as detailed in Section Three of this guidance.

Kids that are intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir can be identified with a single (conventional or electronic) batch slaughter tag, which will show a UK Herd number only.

Replacements - Section Three of this guidance details the requirements for sheep, which are the same as for goats except that electronic identification is voluntary.

Movement reporting - Section Five of this guidance details the requirements for sheep, which are the same for goats.

Record keeping - Section Four of this guidance details the requirements for sheep, which are the same for goats.

Inspections - Section Six of this guidance details what an inspector may do if you are selected for an inspection.

Sec

tio

n se

ven

Page 33: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

27

Glo

ssary of term

s

Glossary of Terms

1 January annual inventory (figure)

A count on the 1 January each year of the total number of sheep and/or goats on each holding.This figure must be recorded in your flock/herd record.It is also referred to as a stock take figure.

Annual Inventory form This form provides the competent authority with the total number of sheep and/or goats on each owner’s holding(s) on the 1 January each year.It is a legal requirement for this form to be completed and returned by 1 February each year and provide the requested numbers of all sheep/goats in your ownership.

AML1 Form Animal Movement Licence document. See movement document.

Batch recording A group of sheep/goats that is recorded by the number of sheep moved.

Batch within Batch Recording (Slaughter Lambs)

A mixed batch has to be recorded by the total number of sheep identified with each different flock number.

Bolus A ceramic electronic identifier that is administered by mouth and lies in the stomach.

Central Point Recording Centres

See “Third party recording”.

Conventional Batch Slaughter tag

A single (non-electronic) tag that has “UK” and a flock number only printed on it, used to identify lambs intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir before they reach 12 months of age.

County Parish Holding (CPH) Number

A unique number issued by the Rural Payments Divisional Offices that identifies the location of your holding/s.For sheep, land under sole management and control and within 5 miles of the boundary of the main site can be included under the main CPH. (See Section Two “The 5 mile rule”)

ETAS - Ear Tag Allocation System

A central computer system that allocates numbers for official livestock Identification purposes.

Page 34: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

28

Glo

ssar

y o

f te

rms

Electronic Batch Slaughter tag

A single electronic tag that has “UK” and a flock number only printed on the outside but which contains an individual number in the electronic chip inside the tag that can be read with an EID reader. Used to identify lambs intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir before they reach 12 months of age.

EID Electronic Identification.

Flock number (mark) - sheep Herd number - goats

A six-digit number issued by your Animal Health Divisional Office that uniquely identifies your flock or herd.

Flock record - sheep Herd record - goats

A record of births or first identification, deaths, replacement identifiers, upgrading, on and off animal movements and annual inventory figure(s), also referred to as a holding register.

Full EID Two identifiers, one electronic and one visual.

Holding - also see CPH All land identified by a single CPH under your sole management and control where sheep and or goats may be kept.

Holding of Birth (HoB) The holding on which animals are born.

‘Holding of birth’ identifier

The first identifier applied to an animal to identify the holding of birth.

Identifier An eartag, ruminal bolus, tattoo or pastern mark providing the official livestock identification number.

Individual identification number

The 5 digit number that follows the flock or herd mark on “Full EID” or red “Full EID” replacement tags. For sheep identified before 31 Dec 2009 (double tagging) it is a 6 digit number.

Intra community trade Live animal movements between European Union member states.

Main holding/main site The location of the main buildings and livestock facilities. All parcels of land within 5 miles from the boundary of the main site can be considered part of the main CPH.

‘Match-up’ or ‘like for like’ or ‘same number replacement identifier’

An identifier that is identical to the original identification number.

Page 35: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

29

Glo

ssary of term

s

Movement Document - Animal Movement Licence (AML 1) form

A legal document that must be completed each time you move animals between different holdings (CPHs). Completed forms must be sent to the Local Authority within 3 days of the move taking place. The keeper/owner must retain a copy with their flock records.

Owner/Keeper The owner is the person ultimately responsible for the animals and is usually the keeper.Owners may agree to another person assuming delegated responsibility and that person becomes the keeper for movement reporting and flock record purposes.

Pastern mark An electronic or conventional identifier similar to an ankle strap.

Pets - sheep or goats Identification and record keeping rules apply to all sheep and goats, even those being kept in small numbers or as pets.

Replacement identifier An identifier that is always RED in colour. Used when replacing a lost tag or a tag that can no longer be read with a different numbered replacement and the animal is not on the Holding of Birth.

Slaughter Derogation The option to apply a single (conventional or electronic) batch tag to lambs intended for slaughter in a UK abattoir before reaching 12 months of age. Only eartags are allowed if using this method of identification and, for lambs born on or after 31 December 2009, the slaughter tag will display only “UK” and a flock number.

Sole occupancy Authority (SOA)

A group of holdings within the same management and control, which are linked for the purposes of disease control standstill requirements and are subject to Animal Health Department approval.

Tattoo An identification method using ink to create a permanent mark in the skin.

Temporary short term grazing including land grazed by sheep on tack

Land where sheep are grazed or housed on a temporary basis.

Third party recording Process where a destination premises (i.e. market/abattoir) provide a service to read the individual identity of animals on arrival and where they supply a list of those individual numbers to the owner/keeper to be retained with the movement documents or flock record.

Page 36: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

30

Upgrading to Full EID A lamb originally identified with a single (conventional or electronic) batch slaughter tag can only be upgraded (re-identified with full EID), if complete traceability can be provided. This requires every holding that each lamb has been on from birth to be recorded in the flock record of the holding where upgrading takes place.

Glo

ssar

y o

f te

rms

Page 37: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

31

Annex A

Annex A

Advice on how to correctly identify animals to reduce the risk of injury, distress and infection

Best Practice for Identifying

A.1 What type of ear tag should I order for my animals?There are many types of tag designed to be suitable for sheep and goats (both electronic and non-electronic). Official approval of all eartag designs using a set of quality standards and tests is required before marketing can commence. As a result, you can still choose between styles and makes available to you. It is important to choose identifiers that are suitable for the breed, size and age of the animal being identified.

You can see a list of tag manufacturers by searching under “EID” on the Welsh Assembly Government website at www.wales.gov.uk.

A.2 PasternsNot commercially available in the UK (at December 2009) but similar to an ankle strap.

A.3 What is a Bolus?Bolus are used for electronic identification. They are ceramic, administered by mouth and lie in the stomach. They should not be administered without appropriate training.

A.4 What about the welfare of my animals?It is important that you carry out the application of identification correctly to protect the welfare of your animals.

Following manufacturer’s recommended procedures will also reduce the likelihood of lost tags as well as any associated problems. Please follow these guidelines carefully to make sure you correctly apply the tags and to avoid unnecessary pain to your animals.

A.5 Guidelines for fitting ear tags• The left ear (standing behind the animal) should be used to apply the electronic tag

(where double tagging is required).

• Make sure your operator is properly trained and competent.

• Think carefully about the best type of tag/s for your animals. Use a suitable style and size of tag for the breed, size and age of the animal being identified.

• Make sure tags are fitted correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions and use correct pliers for the make and type of tag that you are fitting.

• Fit tags in cool weather (where possible) to reduce the risk of “fly strike” and infections.

Page 38: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

32

Ann

ex A

• Make sure the animal’s head is secure to prevent jerking during tagging.

• Apply tags under hygienic conditions. Make sure the ear, tag and applicator are clean. Consider using an insecticide or repellant on your animal(s) but you must take care to follow the instructions for each product to meet health and safety regulations and avoid residues in meat or milk.

• The tag should be placed through the ear, avoiding the main blood vessels and ridges of cartilage. The different styles of tag are designed for different placement in the ear. As a result, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific tag make and design.

• Remember to allow for ear growth when fitting loop tags.

• When fitting two-piece plastic tags, always make sure the male part of the tag is fitted from the back of the ear as centrally as possible. After inserting the tag, the female part of the tag should be on the inside of the ear.

• Store unused tags in a clean container.

A.6 If you are having problems with ear tags or pastern marksIf you are having problems with tags falling out, make sure you are fitting them correctly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. In many cases, tags fall out because they have not been inserted correctly. If you have problems with sheep or goat tags, you should discuss these with your supplier. You should consult a vet in cases of infection or severe bleeding.

A.7 Guidelines for EID BolusYou should refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines when fitting EID boluses to your animals.

Page 39: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

33

Annex B

Annex B - Contacts

List of Local Authority contact e-mail addresses and telephone numbers

Name of local authority E-mail address and telephone number

Anglesey [email protected] 01248 752845

Blaenau Gwent Environment.health@blaenau-gwent. gov.uk FAO Animal Welfare 01495 355968

Bridgend [email protected] 01656 643479

Caerphilly [email protected] 01443 875500

Carmarthen [email protected] 01267 228705

Cardiff [email protected] 02020 872059

Ceredigion [email protected] 01545 572275

Conwy [email protected] 01492 574000

Denbighshire [email protected] 01824 706086

Flintshire [email protected] 01352 703181

Gwynedd [email protected] 01286 682728

Merthyr Tydfil [email protected] 01685 725022

Monmouthshire & Torfaen [email protected] 01633 644121/3

Neath & Port Talbot [email protected] 01639 685678

Newport [email protected] 01633 637409

Powys [email protected] 0845 602 7030 / 01597 827460

Page 40: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

34

Pembrokeshire [email protected] 01437 771351

Rhondda Cynon Taff [email protected] 01443425392

Swansea [email protected] 01792 635600

Vale of Glamorgan [email protected] 01446 709105

Wrexham [email protected] 01978 292045

Ann

ex B

Page 41: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

35

Annex B

Animal Health Offices

Caernarfon

(Unitary Authorities of Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Northern Powys)

Animal Health Divisional OfficeCrown BuildingPenralltCaernarfonGwyneddLL55 1EP

Tel: 01286 674144Fax: 01286 674626E-mail: [email protected]

Cardiff

(Unitary Authorities of Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire, Southern Powys)

Animal Health Divisional OfficeGovernment Buildings66 Ty Glas RoadLlanishenCardiffCF14 5ZB

Tel: 029 2076 8500Night line: 029 2076 8500Fax: 029 2076 8510E-mail: [email protected]

Carmarthen

(Unitary Authorities of Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire)

Animal Health Divisional OfficeTy MerlinHeol GlasdwrParc PensarnCarmarthenSA31 2NJ

Tel: 01267 245400Night line: 07000 780144Fax: 01267 245500E-mail: [email protected]

Page 42: Rules for Identifying Sheep and Goats

36

Rural Payments Divisional Offices

CaernarfonPenralltCaernarfon GwyneddLL55 1EP

Tel: 01286 674144Fax: 01286 677749E mail: [email protected]

CarmarthenGovernment BuildingsPicton TerraceCarmarthenshireSA31 3BT

Tel: 01267 225300Fax: 01267 235964E mail: [email protected]

Llandrindod WellsGovernment BuildingsSpa Road EastLlandrindod WellsPowysLD1 5HA

Tel: 01597 823777Fax: 01597 828304E mail: [email protected]

Ann

ex B