identification and stores these data on an IC chip built into a device resembhng 

 credit card. The card, retained by the owner or other custodian, can be accessed 

 only by persons using a second authorization card. These cards may be used in local 

 management of the horse or herd by the owner, custodian, trainer, veterinarian, or 

 other authorized person or may be connected \ ia the Internet to regulatory agencies, 

 breed associations, show offices, or other professional affiliates. 

 Usage: None currently in equids. 



Iris Biometrics — 



Background: Future technology based on 1994 patented technique in people. 



Technology: Iris "code" by "demodulation" of iris pattern (geometric structure) is 

 done through complex mathematics. Benefits in equine applications are that the use 

 of the portable digital camera for imaging is fast and noninvasive. 



Usage: None currently in equids. 



Retinal Biometrics — 



Background: New bovine-porcine technology attempts application to equine retina. 



Technlogy: Vascular pattern of retina is recorded uniquely by algorithm. Benefits 

 in equine applications are that the use of the portable digital camera for imaging 

 is fast and noninvasive; additionally, it is designed to include a gk)bal positioning 

 satellite (GPS) receiver to allow automatic encryption of date, time, and location of 

 image capture. 



Usage: None currently in equids. 



Equine Colors and Markings 



Determination of equine coat colors can be a challenge even to experienced equine 

 identifiers. The names of most colors used to describe equids are unique to the 

 species and can be counterintuitive; even experts often disagree. Some breed registries 

 recognize only a limited number of colors; others are by definition limited to a single 

 group of colors (e.g., Cleveland Bay). The best approach for equine identification is to 

 use the basic terminology common among most breeds of horses, mules, or donkeys 

 with a notation if the technical name of the color does not match the actual color 

 observed. For example it may be appropriate to describe an older grey horse as "grey 

 (appears almost white)" where possible. 



Markings include patterns of white on the head and legs, hair whorls (cowlicks), 

 scars, blemishes, and patterns of other colors superimposed on a base colon As 

 determined by the purpose, white markings may be named, drawn in a picture, 

 described in detail, or photographed. 



When all possible modifications and variations are considered, there are dozens of 

 named colors for equids. There is no single, standardized nomenclature for describing 



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