How to Take a Blood Sample for DNA Sex Testing
Introduction:
DNA sex testing through blood samples is a reliable and convenient method for determining the sex of birds. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to take a DNA blood sample for DNA sex testing. This is the fastest and easiest method.
*These samples need to be taken and received by the Lab within 7 days for accurate testing. Please take the sample and send it in on the same day.
Materials Needed:
- Toe Nail Clippers
- Alcohol wipes or rubbing alcohol
- Disposable gloves
- Styptic Powder
- .2 ml PCR Tube
Procedure:
- Prepare Your Work Area:
- Choose a clean and well-lit area for sampling.
- Lay out all necessary materials within reach.
- Prepare the Bird:
- Handle the bird gently and securely to minimize stress.
- If the bird is particularly nervous or wriggly, you may want to enlist the help of a second person to hold it securely during sampling.
- Sterilize Tools and Hands:
- Put on disposable gloves to maintain a sterile environment.
- Sterilize the clippers by wiping it with an alcohol wipe or dipping it in rubbing alcohol.
- Select a Site for Blood Collection:
- Choose a toe nail that is a bit smaller and thinner, so it’s less stressful for the bird.
- Prepare the Bird for Blood Collection:
- Gently restrain the bird, ensuring it is calm and comfortable.
- Locate the chosen site for blood collection and clean it with an alcohol wipe to remove any dirt or debris.
- Collect the Blood Sample:
- Hold the bird steady, and clip the toenail just below the quick.
- Allow a small drop of blood to form.
- Touch the blood drop to the opening of the tube. Hold the bird there for a moment so a few drops can fall in. Gently rub the toe in a downward motion to get more blood to come out. It doesn’t take much, but a few drops are needed.
- Dip the birds toenail in the Styptic powder for a moment or two, pull it out, and hold it for a couple of minutes so the powder can stop the bleeding.
- Secure the Sample:
- Close the lid of the tube tightly.
- Stick the tube in a clean, sealable plastic bag to prevent damage or contamination. Please label the bag (or a sheet of paper) with the Bird ID. Do not use the same Bird ID for multiple birds for orders you are sending in at the same time.
- Please ensure the sample is in it’s own separate bag.
- Dispose of Waste:
- Dispose of used gloves and any other waste materials properly.
- Clean your work area with alcohol wipes or rubbing alcohol to ensure it is sterile for future use.
- Send the Sample for Testing:
- Package the sealed PCR tube in it’s plastic bag in a padded envelope or box. Ensure it’s labeled somehow with the Bird ID.
- Send the package to the designated address using your preferred shipping method.