A101 - Avian DNA Sexing

Description:

Many species of exotic birds are sexually monomorphic: male and female birds are indistinguishable. DNA sexing utilizes the fact that male and female birds have different sex chromosomes. Bird sex determination is the reverse of that in humans; the female chromosome determines the sex of the bird. Male birds have two Z chromosomes, and are designated ZZ. Female birds have one Z chromosome and one W chromosome (ZW). A region of DNA that differs in size between the Z and W chromosomes is amplified using PCR. Male birds have one size PCR product and females have two different PCR products.

Sample:

1. Whole blood (0.1-0.3 ml) in lavender top (EDTA) tube.
2. Blood collected on filter paper cards from toe nail clipping.
3. Plucked feathers.
For more details on all of these sample collection methods, please visit our Avian DNA Sexing website.

Special Handling:

Samples collected on blotter cards are stable for two weeks if kept in a dry, room temperature environment. Feather samples can be stored for one week. Blood samples do not need to be refrigerated.

Test Code:

A101