Sheep and goat identification and traceability: guidance for keepers in Scotland

Introduction

New rules for the identification and registration of sheep and goats came into force on 31 December 2009. These changes are effected by European law (Council Regulation EC 21/2004) and are intended to improve traceability by introducing individual animal recording; which will allow us to manage a disease outbreak more effectively. These new rules are implemented and enforced by the Sheep and Goats (Records, Identification and Movement) (Scotland) Order 2009. This Order is also linked to cross compliance and your single farm payment. It is important that you follow the rules covered in this guidance as failure to do so could affect your single farm payment.

This guidance explains the requirements of the Order. It provides details on identification of animals, what to record in holding registers and also explains the requirements of movement documents.