Detects Circovirus infection in parrots and related species
Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) is a highly contagious viral infection affecting parrots and other psittacine birds. Caused by beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) — a Circovirus — PBFD can cause progressive feather loss, beak deformities, immune suppression, and death.
This test uses sensitive PCR to detect BFDV DNA, even before symptoms appear.
What it Detects: Active PBFD infection from viral DNA in blood, feathers, or oral tissue
Suitable for screening asymptomatic birds, exposed flocks, or sick individuals
Works on both clinical and preclinical carriers.
Species Supported:
All parrots, including cockatoos, African greys, macaws, lovebirds, conures, budgerigars, parakeets, and more
Also accepted for lorikeets, rosellas, eclectus, and parrotlets
Accepted Sample Types:
-Dried blood spot (best for screening and DNA detection)
-Oral swab (good for birds too small to bleed- overnight shipping recommended)
-Feather (plucked feather; not cut or shed)
Note: Do not use molted feathers — only freshly plucked feathers contain usable DNA.
Turnaround Time: Results typically within 48 business hours of sample arrival
⚠️ Important Notes: PBFD is highly contagious and not treatable
Infected birds can shed virus long before symptoms develop
No vaccine currently available
Positive results should be confirmed with a second test if the bird is asymptomatic
Ideal For:
-New bird intake screening
-Pre-breeding health checks
-Rescue, sanctuary, and pet store biosecurity
-Birds with feather loss, abnormal molts, or beak issues
This kit includes everything you need to submit a dried blood or feather sample to us for testing.
If you would prefer to send fresh swabs, you may opt to add on the collection kit and overnight shipping option HERE.
Please read our disease testing disclaimer HERE.By submitting a sample for disease testing, you agree to these terms in their entirety.
Additionally, any sample submitted for disease testing that is not properly packaged/contained/identified will NOT be tested and no refunds or credits will be issued. It is imperative, dute to the potential for transmission, that you follow packaging guidelines exactly.