DNA Testing – Blue Egg Gene

Want to know whether your chicken carries the blue egg gene? Our DNA testing service provides genetic information to help you make more informed breeding decisions and better understand your flock.

What This Test Tells You

This test identifies the presence or absence of the blue egg gene in the submitted bird. Results come in the form of no copies, heterozygous and homozygous.

No copies = no copies of the blue egg gene - this bird will not give you a blue egg or pass the blue egg gene onto its offspring

Heterozygous - this bird carries 1 copy of the blue egg gene

Homozygous - this bird carries 2 copies of the blue egg gene

DNA testing can be especially useful for breeding programs where you want to determine whether a bird carries the gene even when its appearance or egg color does not give you a definitive answer.

1 test = 1 bird tested.

Instructions 

This test is available for chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus).

Please submit one blood sample per test purchased.

Instructions for DNA Sexing

Materials Needed
1) Sharp, sterilized nail clippers
2) Antiseptic or disinfectant (e.g., alcohol wipes)
3) Sterile gauze or cotton balls
4) Styptic powder or cornstarch (to stop bleeding if needed)
5) Gloves

**For sample collection, you may use paper, coffee filters, Q-tips or cotton swabs.

Preparation
1) Wash your hands thoroughly and wear gloves to prevent cross contamination
2) Gently restrain the chick, holding its foot securely without squeezing too hard.
3) Select a toenail—typically a clear or light-colored nail helps for visibility.
Clipping & Blood Collection
1) Sterilize the nail clippers using an alcohol wipe or disinfectant. Repeat this
between each chick to prevent cross contamination.
2) Clip the tip of the toenail carefully—cut only enough to begin light bleeding of the
quick, avoiding cutting too deep to prevent excessive bleeding.
3) Allow a small droplet of blood to form at the nail tip.
4) Quickly transfer the blood to your collection form of choice—lightly press the chick’s toenail against the collection material, ensuring a clean drop sample.
5) If bleeding continues, apply styptic powder or cornstarch to stop it.
6) Clean the toenail area with antiseptic to prevent infection.

Tips and tricks for a high quality sample:
-Dry the Samples – Lay freshly collected samples flat in a ventilated area for at least 2-4 hours, ensuring no direct heat or sunlight.
-Label Clearly – Use a fine-tip permanent marker to add chick ID, date, and any
necessary details without touching the blood spots.
-Store Safely – Place each fully dried sample in a separate Ziploc bag, remove excess
air, and keep in a cool, dry place for safekeeping.
-Once dry, pack up into an envelope and mail standard USPS. If overweight for
multiple samples, it may have to be shipped flat rate mailer.

Mail To:
Route 99 Silkies
8585 State Highway 99E, Los Molinos, CA 96055

⏱ Processing Time

Please allow 1–2 weeks for processing after your sample is received.

Results will be provided electronically once testing is complete.

Important Information & Disclaimer

DNA testing is performed using the sample submitted by the customer. Gen99 Lab is not responsible for improperly collected, contaminated, mislabeled, damaged, or insufficient samples. If a sample cannot produce a reliable result, a new sample may be required and additional testing fees may apply.

DNA results are intended for breeding and informational purposes only and should not be considered a guarantee of egg color, phenotype, fertility, or future offspring characteristics. Genetic expression can be influenced by additional genes and other biological factors.

By purchasing this test, you acknowledge that you are responsible for correctly identifying and submitting the appropriate sample.

Test purchases are for one bird/sample only. Please purchase one test for each bird you would like tested.