A bolus is a large pill. In this case, it is embedded with a computer chip. It is inserted down the throat of the cow and lodges in the rumen.

We choose to use the NLIS ear tags with our cattle, but the trouble with those is that they can pull off or be lost. However, we tend not to put them on until the animal actually leaves the property. Like I said before, if the animal is going direct for slaughter, no tag is required. As they cost $4-5 each, there's no point using one if it's not necessary.

I think that the devices are recoverable and recyclable. We haven't got any back yet, as we tend to sell to other breeders or direct to the abattoir.

We give our cattle cobalt, selenium and copper boluses each year. They grind upon each other to slowly release these essential trace elements. Deficiencies of these elements can lead to disease and death.