HOW TO & FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Video 1
Video 2
HOW TO COLLECT YOUR SAMPLE
(Photos and Video Below)
Materials- You may use your own materials or order a Test Kit Here
- Clippers
- Alcohol wipes
- Disposable gloves
- PCR tube OR coffee filter strip OR clean paper tip OR q-tip
- Small Plastic Baggies
- Bands or other method to identify birds
- Sharpie or pen to number your samples
- QuikClot (optional but recommended)
- Cute Birds
Procedure
Prep Work Area
Choose a clean and well-lit area. Make sure all of your materials are within reach. Ensure all tools are clean and sterilized. It is important that tools are cleaned before each use to avoid cross contamination. It is also important that the alcohol is completely dry so it does not contaminate your blood sample.
Choose a Bird
Handle the bird gently but securely to minimize stress. Choose a toe nail and gently clean it with alcohol. Ensure alcohol is completely dry before you proceed.
Collect the Blood Sample
Hold the bird steady, and clip the toenail just below the quick. The quick generally looks like a white foggy area in the upper part of the nail. Allow a small drop of blood to form and touch the blood drop to the lid of the tube. Gently rub the toe in a downward motion to get more blood to come out if needed. It doesn't take much, but the sample needs to be visible. If you are not using a PCR Tube simply touch the blood to your paper or q-tip. Allow the sample to dry and place each sample into its own labeled bag to avoid any cross contamination. Dip the toenail in the clotting powder for a moment or two so the powder can stop the bleeding.
Secure the Sample
If using PCR tube, close the lid tightly. Place the sample in a clean, sealable plastic bag to prevent damage or contamination. If using paper or q-tip, allow the sample to dry and place each sample into its own labeled bag to avoid any cross contamination. Please label the bag (or a sheet of paper) with whatever identifier you are using. Do not use the same identifier for multiple birds in the same order.
Register and Send the Sample for Testing
Package the sealed sample in a plastic bag and place in a padded envelope or box. Ensure it's labeled with your order number. Mail Package using your preferred shipping method. Tracking is recommended! When your samples are received, we will update your member portal. Wet samples must be received within 7 days of collection! Dry samples have a much longer shelf life.
Mail samples to: Flock Forensics 11238 Sharrmont Ct, Wilton CA 95693
Please register your sample before mailing your sample to us so we know when to expect your DNA.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Last updated: January 2026
1. Acceptance of Terms
By accessing and using Flock Forensics' services, you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.
2. DNA Testing Services
Flock Forensics provides DNA sexing services for birds. Our services include feather DNA testing, eggshell membrane DNA testing, blood sample DNA testing, and DNA collection kits.
While we maintain a 99.9% accuracy rate, no DNA testing method is 100% accurate. Results are provided for informational purposes and should not be the sole basis for breeding or other critical decisions.
3. Sample Submission
Samples must be properly labeled and packaged, should be from legally owned birds, and cross-contamination must be avoided. Follow our collection guidelines for best results. Samples that cannot be processed will not be refunded.
4. Payment & Pricing
All prices are listed in USD. Payment is required at the time of ordering. Prices are subject to change without notice. Current pricing will be displayed at the time of purchase.
5. Results Delivery
Results are typically delivered within 48 hours of sample receipt at our lab. Results will be sent to the email address provided at the time of ordering.
6. Refund Policy
In cases where samples are of poor quality or insufficient quantity, we may request a new sample or issue a credit refund.