Cut feather containing rachis as a sampling way for avian sexing

Abstract

Sex determination of birds is important to ensure successful breeding strategies, especially for endangered species. Most birds are vulnerable to stress during handling, however, so obtaining a sufficient amount of genomic DNA (gDNA) while causing the least amount of harm is a critical issue. Avian gender can be determined based on different CHD1 gene intron sizes in W and Z sex chromosomes. We have compared various specimen sources and have found that the rachis segment of a feather is a good DNA source for determining sex. This indicates that plucking the whole feather is not necessary; a cut feather including the rachis is a superior method because it decreases stress on the examined birds and is accomplished easily.

Avian gametologs as molecular tags for sex identification in birds of prey of Iran

“…Non-invasive sampling methods for DNA extraction are necessary for birds of prey, since invasive sampling methods are stressful and require extensive handling of the birds that in turn has adverse effects on captive breeding programs (Taberlet, Waits, & Luikart, 1999). Various sources of genomic DNA have also been attempted for birds, including blood, muscle, feather bulb, oral swab, and feces (Bello, Francino, & Sanchez, 2001;Wang et al, 2006). However, feathers (either plucked or molted) seem to provide a more available and less stressful source of DNA than other sources in birds of prey.…”

Usefulness of Biometrics to Analyse Some Ecological Features of Birds

“…However, currently, sex can be determined using molecular techniques (Griffiths et al, 1998;Bantock et al, 2008) which are often more accurate than biometric calculations. Molecular techniques show certain disadvantages with regard to biometric techniques, among which: a) they require more time to obtain accurate results, b) they are more expensive as a well equipped laboratory is required and expensive chemical compounds are needed, c) these are invasive techniques that often require blood or feathers from live birds, although sometimes a small portion of the rachis of a feather is enough (Wang et al, 2006). Molecular techniques have enabled to verify the validity of the biometric criteria previously used to determine sex.…”