AOS Identification verifications are required through the Species Identification Task Force (SITF) for all CBR, CHM, or quality or cultural awards to taxa that have never been recorded by the AOS judging system.

The task force consists of a small group of dedicated volunteers and staff, under the supervision of the Judging Committee, with access to significant reference materials and taxonomic keys. Under most circumstances, a determination can be made using documented references but the SITF also relies on input from respected taxonomic authorities world wide.