DNA Testing Via Feather

Collection Guidelines

1. Prevent Cross-Contamination

• Wipe fingers and all tools (tweezers, clippers, scissors) with a fresh alcohol wipe between each bird.

• Always use clean tools and separate bags for each individual sample.

2. Handling the Feather

• Collect feathers that have one drop of blood, tissue residue, or small dried membrane pieces on the quill.

• Avoid samples that are overly wet, excessively bloody, or rancid-prone.

3. Storage Before Shipping

• After collecting, place each feather in its own sealed bag.

• You may store samples in the freezer initially this helps prevent clotting and slows breakdown.

• Freezing is optional for shipping.
  Samples ship well at room temperature as long as:

  • They contain minimal fluids

  • No large pieces of wet tissue are present

  • No full eggshells or tubes of blood are included