Determination of the sex of birds - DNA test

For many species of farmed birds, especially parrots, ratites, etc., gender discrimination based on morphological features is impossible or uncertain. In cases where the breeder needs to identify males or females as young, it is practically impossible to determine sex according to morphological features. Gender identification by DNA analysis is increasingly used today.

The laboratory offers sex determination in birds based on molecular biological methods. Testing is performed on blood or feather samples.

Method of determination

Differences in the structure of the CHD1 gene (gene encoding "chromo-helicase DNA binding protein") located on sex chromosomes (marked as W and Z in birds) are used for sex determination in birds by the method of molecular biology. The CHD1 gene is present on both the W chromosome and the Z chromosome. However, this gene contains an intron that is of different lengths on different chromosomes. Thus, based on the amplification of the CHD gene, either 2 fragments of the same length indicating homogametic sex (ZZ-male) are obtained, or one of the fragments is longer which is the case of the female, heterogametic sex (WZ). Due to the variability in intron length, a number of alternative methods have been developed, the combination of which makes it possible to determine the sex of a wide range of bird species.

You can find a list of bird orders that you can have examined with us here:

The most frequent birds examined for the sex determination include parrots, ratites (ostriches, rhea, emus ...), but also swans, geese and owls.

Sample type, sampling instructions

The laboratory performs sex determination from feather or blood samples. Before taking samples, it is best to print an order in which you record the identification of all samples taken so that they are not confused. You will also mark the packages of individual samples in the same way.

In the case of feather samples, it is necessary to pull a few (at least 5) small live feathers from the chest, but not down feathers. The bottom of the feather should ideally contain traces of blood. Do not cut the feathers (DNA is isolated from the bottom) or collect dropped feathers (there is a risk of confusion of individuals, contamination or degradation of the material). Allow the blood to dry for a while and place the feathers in a dry paper envelope marked with the individual's identification. Close the envelope carefully.

The analysis can also be performed from a blood sample. For the determination, a drop of blood on a sterile swab or sterile gauze is sufficient. Do not touch the swab with a bare skin, avoid possible contamination from other birds. The blood must be allowed to dry in a swab (at least 30 minutes). Then place the swab in a resealable plastic bag, marked with the bird's identification data. Blood collection is performed by a veterinarian or by a breeder experienced in this type of collection.

Samples must be sent to the laboratory (see address below) as soon as possible (preferably on the same day) together with the printed and completed order.

GEN-TREND s.r.o.
Hůry 149
373 71 Rudolfov
Czech Republic

You will receive the result within 5 working days from the delivery of the samples to the laboratory (we release the results after payment).

We send the invoice for the performed analysis only on request.

In the case of larger orders, long-term cooperation or in the case of research projects (zoos, rescue stations, veterinary surgeries, large breeders) it is possible to negotiate a special price offer (more info at: laborator@gentrend.cz)

The methodology for determining the sex of birds from feather samples was developed in cooperation with the Biotechnology Center of the ASCR and the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of South Bohemia.

The development of the methodology was supported by the program of support for cooperation between companies in the South Bohemian Region and research organizations "Jihočeské podnikatelské vouchery".

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Are you preparing a project on the border of basic and applied research in the field of molecular biological diagnostics or biotechnology and are you looking for a partner from the private sector? Do you have an interesting research result that you would like to apply in practice? Do not hesitate to contact us.