How to Take a Blood Sample for DNA Sex Testing

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:

  1. Toe Nail Clippers
  2. Alcohol wipes or rubbing alcohol
  3. Disposable gloves
  4. Styptic Powder
  5. .2 ml PCR Tube

Procedure:

  1. Prepare Your Work Area:
    • Choose a clean and well-lit area for sampling.
    • Lay out all necessary materials within reach.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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. 
  5. 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.
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
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