We will ship you a test kit with everything you need. Once the test kit is received by the lab you can expect results in 7 - 10 days

In many bird species, the difference between males and females cannot be discriminated based on external characteristics. These are known as monomorphic species. So how can you tell the difference between male and female birds that look alike? A molecular technique developed in the 1990s by a group of scientist provided bird hobbyist, breeders and pet owners with the opportunity to rapidly and reliably determine the sex of these birds. We now offer this non-invasive method.

This method relies on the fact that the gender of birds, like that of mammals, is determined chromosomally. The female birds are WZ (heterogametic) and the male birds are ZZ (homogametic) (unlike humans where females are XX and males are XY). Using PCR based methods, the sex-linked gene CHD can be distinguished based on the number of fragments produced.

The sex of many bird species can not be determined using external characteristics. A DNA test from a reputable lab is the only accurate way to determine the difference between males and females.

Experienced technicians have perfected the science of using DNA to determine a bird's sex. You can be assured that your results will be 99.9% accurate. We can test a wide variety of bird species including finches, cockatoos, parrots, lorikeets, raptors and many more.

BIRD SEX DETERMINATION - BLOOD COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS
(Feather testing has been discontinued as it did not provide enough DNA)

Please follow the steps below to collect blood for an avian DNA test. When collecting blood, use

caution to avoid DNA sample cross-contamination and/or bird infection. Avoid touching the square

on the Avian Blood Sample Card where the blood is to be placed. If you are collecting samples from

more than one bird, you should sanitize the nail clippers with alcohol and wash your hands

thoroughly between each collection.

1. Clip Toenail to Obtain a Blood Sample

With the bird under control, examine the toenail to ensure it is clean. A swab of alcohol can be

used to clean the area, if necessary. Use a sanitized pair of nail clippers to clip the bird’s toenail just

enough to nick the vein (approximately 2/3 of the distance from the root of the nail) and produce

blood flow. See illustration.

Collecting blood from birds toenails for DNA sex testing

2. Spot Blood on the Blood Card

Remove the first bead of blood with a swab or absorbent cotton ball and discard. Next, carefully

touch the Avian Blood Sample Card to the blood flow and absorb a few drops of blood onto the

card. If the blood flow is slow, gently squeeze on the toe with a pumping action. It is not necessary

to completely fill the square on the card with blood; just be sure to collect enough blood to be

visible (usually 2-3 drops of blood).

3. Allow the Blood Sample to Air Dry Completely for 2 - 3 Hours

Once the sample has been collected, set the Avian Blood Sample Card aside to air dry on a clean

surface. Check that the bird is no longer bleeding before returning it to its cage. To stop further

bleeding, apply a coagulant, such as Kwik Stop, to the area. Cornstarch, flour, or baking soda may

also be applied as alternatives.

Allow the card to air dry completely by leaving it at room temperature for 60-90 minutes. Once the card is completely dry, insert it into an envelope or small resealable plastic bag. Use one envelope or bag for each sample collected. Avoid touching the blood sample area while handling the card. Storage of blood cards in plastic, especially when cards are not completely dry, may lead to bacterial and fungal growth, which could render the sample unusable.

4. Mail sample with filled out paperwork to lab in enclosed envelope. Requires .85 cents postage from the US to Canada.