Hot iron branding was successfully used in these tests as a permanent method of identifying hogs. Branding irons with 6-inch symbols made out of 3/2-inch rake tooth were effective markers. Application of lanolin to the brand decreased susceptibility to fly strike but did not affect legibility. Clipping the hair prior to branding was useful, but not necessary. However, even with good brands and well-defined borders of scar tissue, subsequent growth of long hair often concealed or obscured the brand so that animals had to be clipped after 1 1/2 to 2 years to insure rapid identification. Branding did not affect carcass quality when placed on the carcass where the skin was to be removed.

James Moore, Swine Herdsman at the University of California, Davis, assisted in conducting this study.