Permanence of electronic ear tags in extensive rearing of Majorcan black pig

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of electronic ear tags in Majorcan black pigs in extensive conditions. To achieve this objective, a total of 1,221 sows and 94 boars from 66 farms of Majorcan black pig were identified with an electronic tag. After one year, failures, losses and permanence in dynamic reading were observed. No negative effects on animal health were observed after application and during the trial. Perimeter wall effect was statistically significant. Losses in grid perimeter wall (24.4%) were greater than in stone (3%). Despite losses, results in the Majorcan Black Pig breed under extensive conditions surpassed the acceptable level of permanence. In addition, electronic ear tags identification proved to be an acceptable technology for dynamic reading in extensive conditions.