DNA Testing

[Shayne]

Just looked on the animal genetics website and I really don't like the sound of this below.

2. Once you have gained control of your bird, pluck at least 5 small chest or breast feathers. Blood or primary feathers are not required. Some birds may twitch slightly when feathers are plucked, but will not be harmed by this procedure. Small birds like finches and small parrakeets require additional feathers (+8).
*Feathers must be plucked in order to provide us with the necessary tissue cells to isolate the proper amount of DNA.

Surely there must be another way. (I don't want to stick a needle in him either) I don't like the idea of pulling his/her feathers out. What if they don't grow back. What if he decides he enjoys the sensation. Would you do that to your bird?

 

[Ann333]

I plucked my baby's feathers with absolutely no I'll effects. My mom clipped her birds nail for her DNA test and we could not get it to stop bleeding. I'll do the feather plucking every time. He never messed with the site like it never happened. At first there was a spot where his down feather poked out but now a month later the feathers have readjusted and covered the white fuzziness up completely.

 

[Sunset_Chaser]

I have always done the feather sexing without issue. Taking the blood from the nail can be tricky (as previously mentioned by Jakodi) If you want to know your birds gender feather sexing is by far the easiest route to go (for you and your bird)

 

[Frumpydumple]

We have DNA'd our birds by clipping a nail too short and it was always right and relatively easy too. We had no issues with stopping the bleeding on any of the birds.

 

[thekarens]

Plucking feathers is easier and less painful IMO. We've done it with everything from the mac down to the finches and they don't even seem to notice.

 

[Frumpydumple]

We didn't want to pluck feathers out in case it encouraged them to chew or pluck.
It most likely wouldn't, but I would still feel more comfortable clipping a nail short instead.
I have also heard some places say using feathers can be slightly less accurate.
But, I might try using feathers next time I DNA a bird and see how it goes.

 

[weco]

Though you might think the bird would feel their feathers plucked, that's not the case...since they are prey animals, the quick release of their feathers is a safety, escape measure their feathers are designed for.....

Good luck on your choice.....