In many cases, an animal with a lost tag can have its tattoo read in the head gate, and have a blank tag numbered and applied in one operation. Readability of brands is dependent on good branding technique, good irons and practice. Readability of brands can be poor in the winter and spring when winter hair coats may be long enough to partially or completely cover a brand. They should also be placed in the hip or butt area. Ear notches have been used by some cattlemen.
Notches are permanent.
They can be difficult to read without practice and are not used by many cattlemen. Neck chains and ropes are used by some breeders of polled cattle. These are used very little because of expense, loss of chains or ropes and the chances of animals getting caught on objects around the farm. Horn brands are used by some breeders of horned cattle. Brands have to be reapplied on growing animals.