A sampling means for obtaining an organic sample (85) from an animal. The sampling means includes a punch means (18) adapted to be securable in use with a first part (70) of an applicator (100). A housing means (8) is adapted in use to be accommodated, or provided, by a second part (2) of the applicator (100). Operation of the applicator (100) in use being adapted to move said punch means (18) through a required part (80) of an animal to extract a sample (85) thereof. The punch means (18) being receivable within said housing means (8) to enable said housing means (8), with said punch means (18) and said sample (85), to be removable from said second part (2) of said applicator (100), and wherein the sampling means is not associated with an animal tag.
