Eartag Econo F4EM1 Group

The Eartag Econo F4/M1 is a professional-grade, two-piece identification system engineered for the South African livestock and game-farming sectors. Designed as a “Large/Maxi” visual solution, it is the primary choice for farmers who require an affordable yet durable tag for large-scale herd management. The system consists of the F4 Large Female component and the M1 Male Button, creating a secure, tamper-evident lock that is specifically designed to stay in place throughout the animal’s life, even in the dense brush of the Gauteng and Heidelberg regions.

Key Performance Features

• Maxi-Visual F4 Female Component: Features a large 100mm x 76mm surface area, providing a bold, clear canvas for manual marking with a Tag Pen or permanent Tag Burn Branding.
• Integrated M1 Male Button: Equipped with a precision-molded “Econo” plastic point that provides a clean, rapid pierce through the ear cartilage, reducing the risk of tearing or infection.
• UV-Stabilized TPU Construction: Manufactured from high-grade, flexible Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) that remains supple in the freezing Highveld winters and resists the brittleness caused by intense summer sun.
• Non-Snag “Doughnut” Lock: Features a specialized 360° rotating lock mechanism that allows the tag to “swing” freely, preventing it from getting caught on wire fences or thick thorn bushes.

Ideal Applications

• Commercial Beef Cow-Calf Operations: The industry standard for applying permanent management numbers to replacement heifers and mature cows.
• Large Game & Wildlife Management: Perfect for the visible identification of high-value species like Buffalo, Eland, and Sable in extensive ranching environments.
• Feedlot Batch Identification: Ideal for color-coding incoming groups of weaners by origin, weight class, or vaccination status.
• Agricultural Research & Trials: A reliable primary tool for marking specific animals in nutritional or breeding trials where a large, readable number is required.

Product Benefits

• High Retention Rates: The combination of flexible TPU and a secure locking mechanism ensures the tag “gives” under pressure rather than pulling out of the ear.
• Superior Visibility: The Maxi-size F4 component allows for large, hand-written or branded numbers that can be easily identified from horseback or a vehicle in the kraal.
• Safe & Hygienic Application: The smooth plastic point of the M1 male component minimizes tissue trauma, leading to faster healing and reduced “ear-flick” irritation.

Pro Tip: For the best visibility, use a Broad-Tip Tag Marker and write the numbers while the tags are still in the bag; this prevents the numbers from smudging during the marking process. Installation Note: Use a Universal Total Tagger or an Ultra Eartag Applicator for a consistent “snap-lock” every time. Maintenance Note: Avoid applying the tag too close to the edge of the ear; a centered position between the two main ribs is the “sweet spot” for long-term retention.