How is the sex of a
bird determined by DNA?
A bird’s sex is determined
by Z and W sex chromosomes.
Just like in humans and in other mammals that have the X and Y
chromosomes. In birds males carry two Z chromosomes (ZZ), and females
carry a W chromosome and a Z chromosome (WZ). Using a method called PCR (polymerase chain
reaction) it is possible to
amplify a single piece of DNA and to magnify it to generate millions or
more copies of the DNA pieces making it possible to see the chromosome
pattern.
Why
do most species of birds need DNA testing to determine their gender?
With most
species of birds the male and female look exactly the same and the only
way to determine the sex of the bird is through DNA sexing or through
the technique of endoscopy. But endoscopy has a
generally high cost, is invasive and may in some cases cause stress in
animals, or even injuries, even if performed by a qualified institution
or veterinarian. The sexing of birds by DNA has an accuracy rate of
99.9% and doesn’t cause stress or injury to the bird. With only a few
feathers or drops of blood a laboratory can perform the test and give
you accurate results.
What technique is
used to conduct the DNA test?
The
technique that is used to process the DNA sample is called PCR
(polymerase chain reaction) and Agarose gel electrophoresis. PCR is one
of the most advanced techniques of molecular biology. With PCR it is possible to amplify a single
piece of DNA and to magnify it to generate millions or more copies of
the DNA piece. Agarose gel electrophoresis is a method used
in molecular biology to separate DNA molecules by size.
Once the
sample arrives at the laboratory the DNA is extracted. Then the DNA is
analyzed in the laboratory by the technique of PCR and agarose gel
electrophoresis. Both techniques are conducted separately in two parts,
to prevent inaccuracy. The remainder of the DNA sample is stored in the
database of samples in case of future testing.
What type of sample
is used to determine the sex of a bird?
DNA sexing
can be performed with blood, feather or an eggshell sample.
It is up to the
breeder/owner of the bird to chose which type of sample they would like
to submit.
Both blood and
feather samples contain the birds DNA and provide the same amount of
accuracy.
What kinds of
feathers have a better tissue sample for the DNA test?
Chest
feathers are great for DNA testing since they are dry bulb feathers and
don’t cause as much stress to the bird as blood feathers do.
How many feathers
are needed to complete the test?
6-8 Chest feathers are needed.
Can
molted feathers be used for the test?
No, only
freshly plucked feathers can be used. Molted feathers don’t contain
enough tissue DNA to complete the test.
How old does a bird
need to be to be tested?
The bird
can be tested as soon as 7 days after hatching. However, at this age
the bird doesn't have any feathers to be tested. In order to sex the
bird at this age we would need a blood sample.
How long does it
take for the feathers to grow back?
Feathers
can grow back within 5 weeks.
What
if my bird’s species is not on your list?
Contact us
and we’ll check with our laboratory.
What is the bird ID
number in the submission form?
The bird ID
number can be the bird’s leg band number or you can use the bird’s
name. If you don’t have either you can label the bird’s cage in order
to identify the bird.
How much does each
exam cost?
1-4 samples
$15.00 each.
5 or more samples $13.00 each.
How can I make a
payment?
You can
either pay online using PayPal or you can send us a money order/
personal check made out to
JP
Bird Sexing with your sample.
How do I mail the
sample?
You can use
regular mail or if you are in a hurry you can overnight us the sample.
* We are not
responsible for any lost kits in the mail.
How long does it
take to get the results?
The results
are ready within 5-7 business days after we receive the sample(s). As
soon as the results are ready we will e-mail your results.Or if you prefer for us
to call you with your results please specify this request on the
submission form provided.
When will I receive
the certificate?
Once the exam is completed the
certificate is mailed to you along with decorated seals for free within
2-3 business days after the results are in. The certificates are
personalized and the customer has the option to place additional information
for each bird, such as name, date of birth, leg band number or
parentage. You can also request to change the name of the owner in case
if the bird is sold, at no additional cost. Certificates are available
in English, Portuguese, Spanish and in French.
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