black or green ink?

[robdogtn]

I am new to registered cattle and fixing to tattoo my first calves as they hit the ground. When I bought my tattoo pliers it came with black ink. They were out of green and said they wouldn't be carrying it any more. So, my question to you old timers is will the black ink show up in an angus ear? Or do I need to wait and get green?

Thanks

 

[AudieWyoming]

My experience nothing shows up really well on a black angus ear. The thick green paste works best. If you blunt the needles they will make bigger holes, work the paste into them with a toothbrush or terry cloth. Good Luck! @

 

[robdogtn]

Thanks, that was my thoughts. I figured if it ever came a problem I would have to shave ear to see either way.

 

[Angus In Texas]

If I'm not mistaken, the Angus Association requires green ink.

 

[TexasBred]

Thanks, that was my thoughts. I figured if it ever came a problem I would have to shave ear to see either way.

Just shine a flashlight on the ear from the back side...the tattoo will show up great.

 

[DavisBeefmasters]

Our association allows the white ink... which came with our pliers way back whenever, but the black works fine on red ears.

 

[Ryder]

Thanks, that was my thoughts. I figured if it ever came a problem I would have to shave ear to see either way.

Just shine a flashlight on the ear from the back side...the tattoo will show up great.

I was just about to post about the flashlight myself. That and not taking the vets word when he said there was no tattoo there saved me a cow one time.
Make sure you clean the ear good if hard to see the numbers.