Captive Management

Identification

In order to properly manage and breed tigers, zookeepers and biologists must keep track of which tiger is which. They use two methods: tattoos and electronic transponders.

All zoos tattoo their tigers with a three- or four-digit number. That number is registered in the Tiger Studbook and identifies that tiger for the rest of its life.

Electronic transponders are small microchips which are placed under the tiger's skin as a permanent identification marker. Zookeepers use a scanner to read the unique 12-digit number that identifies the tiger. Transponders are often placed on the inner leg or at the base of the left ear, but they may be put anywhere under the tiger's skin. They are easier to use than tattoos, since, with a scanner, they can be read quickly and easily, without immobilizing the tiger and shaving its leg.