How is the sex of a bird determined by DNA?
The avian DNA test utilizes differences on the sex chromosomes birds in order to determine their sex. Male and female birds give distinctive and different DNA patterns, resulting in conclusive and accurate sex identification.
What is the average turn around time for testing?
Results are available within 3 days of sample receipt.
How do I get my results?
Preliminary results can be phoned, faxed or emailed. Certificates are mailed within one week after test completion.
How should I ship my samples?
Regular mail is fine. However, if you are working within a limited amount of time, please send them via express (overnight) mail.
How much blood is needed?
Generally, 1 to 2 drops of blood is sufficient for the avian sexing test. It is very important that blood soaks through to the back of the collection card. The accuracy of the test is very dependent on the quality of the sample.
How careful do I need to be when handling the collection cards?
Because of the extreme sensitivity of our test, inconclusive results may result from environmental contamination on the blood cards. If you are using styptic powder (such as Quick Stop) to stop the nail from bleeding, keep it away from the testing card!
Which is more reliable, blood or feather testing?
There is much more DNA in a blood sample then in a feather shaft, making the blood test more sensitive.
Does a bird have to be a certain age?
From birth to death, DNA remains the same across all species, so there is no specific age for most accurate results.
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