DNA Sexing Gender Reveal – Avian Species

Want to know if your bird is a boy or a girl? Let the DNA decide!

Our DNA Sexing Gender Reveal uses genetic testing to determine the sex of your bird from a small biological sample. It’s a simple and reliable way to find out your bird’s sex when it cannot be determined visually—or when you simply want to know for sure.

This service is available for a wide variety of avian species and is ideal for chicks, young birds, breeding stock, and species where males and females are difficult to distinguish by appearance.

What Does DNA Sexing Test?

Birds have a different sex chromosome system than mammals. Genetic testing can identify the sex of a bird by analyzing DNA associated with its sex chromosomes.

This makes DNA sexing especially useful for species where males and females look very similar or cannot be reliably sexed by appearance.

Your result will identify your bird as genetically male or genetically female based on the DNA sample submitted.

Species

This service is available for avian species.

It can be used for a wide variety of birds, including poultry, ornamental birds, and other avian species.

If you are submitting a less common or unusual species, please include the species name with your sample so we can ensure the appropriate testing is applied.

1 Test = 1 Bird

Each test purchased covers one bird and one DNA sample.

If you have multiple birds, please purchase one test for each bird.

Each sample must be clearly identified so your results can be matched to the correct bird.

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.