Species determination for birds
About species determination
Through a species identification test, preferably using feathers, it is possible to determine the species of your bird.
When is it useful to perform a species determination on birds?
- In activities such as population control, import and export of birds, feathers of unknown origin are more often found. Our advanced bird species determination allows us to clarify further investigations.
- Personal interest in a found feather
- Uncertainty about the species, e.g. when buying a new bird
Important: our techniques are not applicable to the feathers of hybrid birds. The test falls back on DNA material from the mother, which complicates the exact species determination in hybrid cases.
Suitable samples
Feathers
- One set of 4-5 freshly plucked breast feathers or 2-3 tail or wing feathers
- Fallen moulting feathers, down feathers and blood feathers should be avoided. These sometimes contain insufficient DNA or can cause damage to the feather follicle when pulled out.
- Blood feathers are the new feathers that can be recognised by the blue sleeve at the base of the plume.
- To avoid contamination, the shaft (the end of the feather that comes out of the bird's skin) must not be touched with the hands
Blood sample
- Small amounts (capillary tube) are sufficient for accurate analysis
Eggshell with membrane
- Particularly convenient for recently hatched nests
Cheek swab of a nestling
- A gentle way to collect DNA from young birds
- Caution: avoid mixing with food or food waste
Requesting species determination
Apply for your test by e-mail at info@neornilab.be
Results
- Processing time 5 working days
- You will receive an email when your results and certificate are available on your personal portal