An Ear Notcher is a handheld surgical or tagging instrument used primarily in animal husbandry to create notches or marks in the ears of livestock for permanent identification. It’s commonly used on pigs, goats, sheep, and sometimes cattle. It creates coded patterns that correspond to identification numbers or batches

•  Function: Creates V-shaped, square, or round notches in ears

•  Design: Scissor-like tool with cutting edges or jaws

•  Cut Types: V-notch, Square notch, Half-moon, Custom

•  Jaw Size: 6 mm to 20 mm (typical)

•  Weight: ~200–600 grams

• Handle: Plastic-coated or bare metal

•  Material: Stainless steel, aluminium alloy, or hardened steel

•  V-Notcher – Most common type

•  Square Notcher – Produces box-shaped cuts

•  Half-Moon Notcher – Rounded cuts for specific ID systems

•  Adjustable Depth Notcher – Allows control of cut size

•  Mini Notcher – For small animals or baby livestock

•  Stainless Steel – Durable, rust-resistant

•  Carbon Steel – Hardened, economical

•  Aluminium Alloy – Lightweight versions

•  Coated Handle – For improved grip and comfort

•  Category: Animal identification tool

•  Product Form: Handheld manual device; not battery-operated

•  Reusable: Yes, with proper sterilization

•  Clean thoroughly after each use (especially if blood present)

•  Can be sterilized using:

o  Autoclave (if all-metal)

o  Chemical disinfectants (chlorhexidine, alcohol-based)

•  Store in dry, cool environment

•  Keep blades sharp and lubricated

•  HS Code: 8201.30 – Hand tools (e.g., shears, clippers)

•  HSN Code (India): 82013000 – Tools used in agriculture/livestock

Used for permanent ID marking in:

o  Pigs (most common)

o  Sheep and Goats

o  Cattle (in some systems)

o  Research animals

Q1. What is an Ear Notcher (EN)?

Full Form: Ear Notcher Short Form: EN It is a manual tool used to cut identification marks into the ears of animals like pigs or goats.

Q2. Is the Ear Notcher reusable?

Yes. With proper cleaning and sterilization, ear notchers can be reused many times.

Q3. Can it be used on humans?
No. It is strictly for animal use and can cause serious injury if misused.

Q4. What’s the standard cut size of a notcher?

Common notch sizes range between 6 mm to 20 mm, depending on the model and species.

Q5. What is the HSN Code for an Ear Notcher?

HSN Code: 82013000 – Classifies agricultural/livestock hand tools including notchers.