FAQ- Avian DNA Tests and Disease Testing

Last Update 7/17/2025 ABOUT DNA TESTING Frequently Asked Questions: Question: What methodology do you use to perform your testing? Answer: We use either PCR, qPCR (real time PCR), or lateral flow assays. (Or a combination of any of the three). PCR: PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction; a molecular biology technique used to amplify small amounts of DNA into millions of copies, so it can be easily detected and analyzed. qPCR: qPCR stands for Quantitative PCR, also called Real-Time PCR. It's a powerful upgrade of regular PCR that doesn’t just detect DNA, it measures how much is present, in real time during the reaction. Lateral Flow Assay: A Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) is a simple diagnostic test that detects the presence of a target substance—such as a virus, bacteria, or antibody— in a liquid sample, with results visible to the naked eye, often within 5–30 minutes. These tests are only utilized occasionally to validate a result that may otherwise be subject to retest. Question: Will gender test results be reliable from either blood or feather test? Which is more accurate? Why don't you test eggshells? Answer: Either test is equally as accurate within 99% accuracy assuming the collection was done appropriately and the sample is fresh. The 1% error margin allows for human error, either in sample collection (getting enough sample material, keeping samples separate of other bird's (or other animal's samples), sample degradation in shipping/handling, or laboratory processing error. Our equipment and supplies are state of the art and our team is very experienced in the proper handling and storage of samples. Please make sure to follow sample collection directions EXACTLY to ensure accurate results. With respect to Ostrich and Emu, the best option is blood, however, we understand that may be difficult to collect, if not downright impossible for some farmers. With that in mind, feathers are the only option for many. DNA extracted from ostrich or emu feathers, blood, or tissue can vary in quality, affecting PCR reliability. Contamination or degradation further complicates amplification. We have developed a multi-layer PCR testing system to get better quality results from our samples which explains the slightly higher price for testing these animals.

Our preference for samples is blood because it always contains DNA, where a feather may not, and the feather must be very, very fresh. Compared to blood, which can be completely dry when testing, more can go wrong with feathers. For this reason, we ask for several feathers. With blood, a pea-sized drop on filter paper is more than enough.

We don't test egg shells because there's more opportunity for contamination or misidentification of the sample you wish to have tested. Unless a customer is hatching eggs one by one, a mix-up can happen, another anima's genetic material can make its way onto the test sample, and we want to mitigate the chances of incorrect test results. Please also note: Not all DNA tests will be available for feather testing as an option. Some tests may require blood only, and some disease tests will require tracheal or cloacal swabbing. The type of sample required will always be listed in the item's description and title in our shop. Question: Why would I want to genetically sex my chickens or other birds?

Answer:

There are many reasons you may wish to sex your chickens or other birds. Here are a few examples: 1. Certain jurisdictions may only allow hens- and roosters are forbidden. Having the animal's gender determined early can allow for the removal of this bird from your flock before it begins to breed, crow, etc. It will also help some people or families to rehome the bird before they become too attached. 2. Certain breeds of chicken and other bird species are especially difficult to identify their gender until they begin to mature, crow, or lay eggs. Some birds may not lay for an exceptionally long time, so knowing the gender ahead of time saves the farm or hobbyist money on feed and opens up space for another animal that may be of the desired gender if the one tested does not fit. 3. Breeders often sell very young "pairs" or breeding stock of groups of birds. This service allows them to know genders earlier, with almost absolute certainty, and there is a value add for the buyer who has this assurance at the time of purchase. 4. You may just want to know! Maybe you adopted a bird like a pigeon or dove- which can be impossible to differentiate by appearance alone and you'd like to know if Davey the Dove should actually be named Daniela instead! Some folks just want to know.

Question:

What if my test is inconclusive? Answer: If your test is inconclusive, it means not enough genetic material was able to be extracted from the samples provided to us. On our end, we test and retest inconclusive samples to rule out an error within our lab. After we have ruled out our own error, the only alternative conclusion is there was not enough genetic material present. We are not responsible for testing that could not generate a conclusive result from a polluted, too small, or incorrect sample collection. Please be absolutely SURE to follow the included directions exactly to ensure the best outcome. This means providing us with enough sample material to test (and retest if needed)- especially with respect to ostriches and emus. "Enough" material for a genetic PCR test is at least 5 feathers gathered freshly from the chest area of the bird, or a spot of blood the size of a pea on paper. In a vial, try to get enough that if you estimated it, would be the equivalent to at least the pea sized amount we indicated for the paper collection method. PLEASE DO NOT SEND MOULTED FEATHERS OR FEATHERS COLLECTED FROM ANYWHERE OTHER THAN THE CHEST/ABDOMEN IF YOU ARE GENDER TESTING. The results may be inconclusive if directions are not followed exactly.

Question: How long does it take to get my results? Answer: There are a few variables to this question. First, shipping is always a variable that is out of our control. Once you put your properly collected and stored samples in the mail, most testing will be conducted within 2 business days of the date we receive your samples. You will receive a notification that your samples have arrived in our hands and when testing is completed with your results. Test results (barring any need to retest or errors with samples received) will be finished within those 48 business hours or sooner. IF YOU NEED RESULTS FASTER, you can order expedited shipping options as well as expedited testing options. Testing can be delayed if there is confusion about the samples sent to our lab. For example, there are more samples than tests ordered or paid for. We will contact you before ANY testing begins to ensure this was done on purpose, and if not- what samples you'd like tested. Any additional payment required, etc. To prevent delays, please make sure ALL documentation is filled out completely. You indicate your order number on the included document, all the samples are identified clearly, stored separate of each other, not contaminated by any unknown substance or blood, etc. 7/11/25 update: We have been receiving samples without the required paperwork as well as samples contaminated with unknown substances or blood. This creates a hazard for our team. Paperwork is necessary to ensure your samples stay identified correctly. Unknown and unidentified additional substances (for example, red material that appears to be blood) is treated as a biohazard. Handling these substances without knowing their origin is a health and contamination risk to our staff- as well as being a potential invalidating factor for your samples. IF samples are received and appear to be contaminated, we will contact you immediately. You may be asked to send new samples in. Any testing that is would be performed on these samples can not be certified. Please treat your samples as if you KNOW there is a communicable disease on them. If they are collected and packaged with the utmost of care, there should be no opportunity for any contaminating factors to enter the samples. Question:

How old do my chicks/chickens/other bird species need to be for DNA testing? (all DNA testing options) Answer: For feather testing, the birds must have several actual feathers in their chest area that can be safely plucked and provided as a sample. Tiny, single feathers will not guarantee a result. The younger the bird, the smaller the feathers, the more material needed. When you pluck the feathers, make sure the shaft where the feather enters the skin is intact, and that you do NOT touch that area at all with your hands or anything that may be contaminated with other DNA. Put the sample DIRECTLY into the correct bag. With respect to ratites and feather samples- we require extra material for testing. These birds are notoriously difficult to test- please make sure you are including at least 5 feather samples with the base of the feather shaft intact. (the part that sticks into the bird's skin) For blood testing, the bird can be as young as freshly hatched- but any age will work, provided we receive enough blood to perform the test. If you're testing ostriches and emus- freshly hatched is the best time to collect blood samples for ease of handling the animal.

Question: Does either method of sample collection hurt my bird? Answer: Plucking a few feathers from your bird's chest area would be akin to plucking a few hairs from your arm or your head. It isn't the most enjoyable thing, but the pluck happens quickly and it doesn't cause any long term discomfort or damage to the animal. Blood drawing from a toe nail or under the wing might startle the bird and feel similar to how you would if you cut a nail slightly shorter than normal. The bleeding stops quickly and so does any discomfort. We wouldn't describe the effect as painful to them, or causing any lasting pain as much as it might startle them momentarily.

HOW TO Frequently Asked Questions:

Question:

How do I collect feathers from my bird for the feather testing method?

Answer:

Please see full instruction sheet for exact direction, but in short: Feathers are plucked from the bird or chick's chest area-either by hand or with tweezers.

Please note: For best results, several feathers must be provided. Molted feathers and/or blood feathers do NOT contain enough DNA to test properly and could cause a false or no result. Also, chick down, fluff, and incomplete feathers that are cut will not work. The feather shaft must be present and intact. DO NOT TOUCH THE SHAFT AT ALL WHILE HANDLING AND PACKAGING. It is especially important in ostriches and emu that you collect extra feathers and take special care to keep samples isolated from samples of other birds to be tested. Question: How does the blood sample collection work? Answer: Please see full instruction sheet for exact direction, but in short: The bird's toenail is clipped just at the quick to cause a small amount of blood to come out. That drop or two of blood will be deposited onto a non-absorbent sheet of paper and allowed to dry. Alternatively, for those with experience harvesting blood samples from their birds (such as veterinarians, farm hands, and state-trained NPIP Program testers) with the help of an assistant, blood can be harvested from under the wing of your chickens and other birds as well. Please do not attempt this method if you are not properly trained or understand to do so correctly. We do include lancets and instructions on harvesting in this method in our kits. Question: How do you perform PCR testing? Answer: This is a very scientific and technical question. In an effort to keep the response simple and short: Sample material (blood or feathers, or otherwise) are processed by the lab. First, we extract the DNA from sample material, then, using our state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, the sample is processed further, combined with an appropriate chemical primer to isolate the genetic gender markers. The material is then illuminated using electrophoresis- for our team to be able to view the results. Again, this is a very basic explanation of an extremely specific and complicated chemical and laboratory process. Question: How many samples can I send in at one time? Answer: The short answer is as many as you like. Please ensure you have submitted the number of samples reflective of the number of tests purchased. If you purchased 5 tests, 5 samples should be sent. If more bird samples are sent than tests purchased, you will be contacted for payment before any testing is completed. For large scale breeders, veterinarians, shows, etc., that may be needing access to large volume or repeat testing capabilities, please contact us at info@affordableavian.com  or click HERE to set up an account for best/volume pricing. ABOUT AFFORDABLE AVIAN Frequently Asked Questions: Question: Do you have a veterinarian on staff? Answer: No, we do not. We only perform lab work at the behest of our clients- like you, or breeders, rescues, and veterinary offices. Our work is limited to providing a confirmation of either the existence or the absence of a "marker" within the DNA of a sample. It is then up to you, and/or your veterinarian to take the next steps. If we detect the presence of a disease marker in the sample- you are alerted, and instructed to follow up with your vet for next steps. A positive result does NOT mean a diagnosis has been made by us. It means that we have identified the presence of the target in the sample provided. Because we are not diagnosing illness, practicing medicine, or giving medical advice, we do not require a veterinarian on staff, nor are we required to operate under veterinarian supervision.

Question: Do you do the testing in-house, or do you use a third party to perform testing? Answer: All testing is done in-house. We own the lab and all the equipment within. We do not outsource our testing to any other lab. Question: I was told you provide services to another entity that is also selling lab services. I.e.: they claim they do their own testing AND you provide testing support to their lab. Answer: We do not provide testing support for any other lab or entity offering testing services. If an organization claims they outsource their lab services to our lab, this is false. We do not "sell" our lab services at a "discount" to other laboratories to charge a markup. We do not co-op our services. We do not do this because we can not control the integrity or reputation of any other lab services and can only guarantee the integrity of our own services. If you see this claim being made by any entity or organization, please report it to us at info@affordableavian.com. Your report will be confidential. Please provide evidence of the claim if it was made in writing. This helps us preserve the integrity of our brand and services. Question: Can I drop off my samples physically to the lab? Answer: No. For security reasons and to maintain the biosecurity and integrity of our testing space, we do not accept walk-in traffic or accept samples delivered to the facility. Our lab facility is not equipped with a temperature-controlled or lockable mail drop box, which could compromise sample quality and integrity. For this reason, all samples should be sent to our secure P.O. Box, where they are promptly and properly handled and secured upon arrival. Packages are then picked up and brought to the lab daily at 6 a.m. Please note: if your sample arrives after 6a.m., it will be picked up the next morning at 6 a.m. Question: Your site doesn't look anything like other lab sites. Why is that? Answer: In short, our website is designed to be approachable and simplistic. Most lab sites are extremely clinical and dull. We aim to provide the testing you are seeking in a more engaging manner, using language anyone can digest. In a nutshell, the boring lab stuff is our job, it shouldn't have to be yours. BUT if you want to read more about our services or get in depth- check out our KNOWLEDGE tab. There are tons of articles that vary in depth to help you learn more about us and any bird you can think of! SHIPPING Frequently Asked Questions: Question: How quickly do you ship kits? Answer: The simplest answer is "as soon as possible". We strive to ship kits immediately whenever possible. However, evening orders may wait until next business day to be shipped. Our standard is to ensure packages are shipped within two days (not counting holidays or weekends) of order. Expedited packages will ship same day if ordered before noon CST, and next day in all other cases.

Question:

I have a DIY download- how should I ship my samples back? Answer: We recommend you ship samples WITH TRACKING. Our kits ship with tracking and any return shipping included with kits sent will also contain a tracking number. The only way to locate your samples if lost in transit is with a tracking number. If you elect to ship without tracking, this is done at your own risk.  There will be no way to ensure if/where/when the samples were received, should they be lost or misplaced in transit. This can delay your testing until the samples are received in our lab. Question: I live overseas. Can you test my animals? Answer: Yes. You may order a kit that we will send to you with tracking included. The price of shipping the kit to you is included- however, we do not include return shipping as rates vary from country to country. You will be the best decision-maker for choosing the service and speed in shipping your tests to us. Alternatively, you may pre-pay for testing services and download the paperwork from our site. (You will need to create an account to access those files) Then you would collect the samples on your own, and ship them to us on your own as well. In either scenario, we highly recommend tracking being added to your return shipment. We are not responsible for lost samples. ETC Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: I ordered a single kit and there are extra materials and paper sample slips inside. Does that mean I can test more than one bird? OR How many birds can I test per kit purchased? Answer: The number of birds that can be tested is equal to the number of tests that were included in the listing that was purchased. Unless the listing specifies more than one test is included in the price (such as a 10 pack), the listing includes ONE test. If more samples are sent in than number of tests purchased, you will be contacted for clarification on which sample you would like tested, or to make a payment for the difference before any tests will be completed. Please ensure you have purchased the correct number of tests before sending samples in to prevent a delay in testing. For shipped kits, we include extra materials like lancets and sample identification slips in case an error is made and an extra is needed. For DIY download kits, the sample identification sheet contains 4 slips as well. This does not mean 4 separate bird samples are included in the pricing. Multipacks are available, and each multipack will cover testing fees for only the number of tests indicated in the multipack. Question: Why would I want to have my test certified? Answer: Certifying the test provides a "pedigree" of sorts that can be validated through our online service, provides proof that the test was done by us on that specific animal, and can not be forged easily. The online registration and validation is included and is impossible to forge. This adds value and legitimacy to your breeding program. Question: Do you charge extra for your kits? Answer: We have seen that some testing services offer their kits for one price, and testing the materials sent in with the kit is an extra charge. This seems extremely confusing to us and obfuscates the actual price for the service. When you work with us, the price you see INCLUDES the kit and the testing service. For example- the DNA gender test for chickens is $15 per sample to be tested. That INCLUDES the materials if you opt for us to send them to you. All you will pay for is the price of shipping and the actual testing service. If you elect to do the collection on your own with your own materials, the cost for testing is still $15. Check out our YOUTUBE channel for videos and more information! __________________________________________________________________ If you have a question about something not included in this FAQ sheet, please reach out to us at info@affordableavian.com or click HERE