Blood Collection
DNA sexing and many disease panels can be run from a small dried blood spot. Nail clipping and toe pricking are the methods we recommend for birds — both are quick when done with a sterile tool and a calm bird.
Collect only what the card needs. A thin, even spot that dries fully is better than a thick, wet smear.
What you need
Sterilised nail clippers or a sterile needle
Alcohol swab and clean cotton
Beaks Lab collection card or clean filter paper
A pencil to label species, band number and date
A paper envelope — do not use plastic while the spot is damp
The nail clipping
Hold the bird securely but gently. Wipe the nail with an alcohol swab and let it dry. Clip only the tip of the nail so a small drop appears. Touch the drop to the collection card — do not smear it around. Apply light pressure with clean cotton if needed, then let the spot air-dry completely before packing.
The toe pricking
Keep the bird comfortable in the hand. Use a sterilised needle to prick the skin just above the nail. Collect a small drop on the card, wipe the site with alcohol, and allow the card to dry fully before it goes in the envelope.
How much blood
One clear dried spot, about the size of a small coin, is enough for DNA sexing. If you are sending samples for more than one test, ask us first — we may ask for a second spot rather than a larger smear.
Labelling and packing
Write species, sex if known, band or ring number, and collection date on the card
Dry the card in open air — never with a hair dryer or in direct sun
Place each dry card in its own paper envelope
Do not stack wet cards or seal them in polythene
Send to Beaks Lab, Edapally, Kochi, with your contact number
What to avoid
Clipping too deep or collecting from an unclean nail
Mixing samples from two birds on one card
Sending a wet or mouldy spot
Using alcohol on the card itself after the blood is on it
After you send it
Typical turnaround for DNA sexing is fast once the sample reaches the lab. You will receive a certificate number so you can track the result online. If the spot is too small or contaminated we will contact you before repeating the test.