Animal Identification and Record Keeping

The Animal Welfare Act and the Guide require appropriate identification of animals and maintenance of animal records. Accepted methods of animal identification include room, rack and cage cards; collars and bands; ear notches and tags; implantable microchips; tattoos; and freeze brands.  Toe clipping is only acceptable for rodents and lower vertebrates when other methods of identification cannot be used.

Investigators are responsible for maintaining appropriate records on all animals including rodents, bats, birds and ectotherms.  Cage or rack cards should indicate, at a minimum, the source of the animal and the name and telephone number of the responsible investigator, an IACUC approval number and its expiration date.  Written records of procedures, drug use, illnesses, injuries, and date of death, euthanasia, or disposition should be noted.

Animal records must be maintained for 3 years and are subject to inspection by NIH and NSF site visitors.

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