Resources
Sample collection guide
Accurate DNA results start with a clean, labeled blood sample. This guide walks you through what to gather, how to collect from your birds, and how to mail samples to our New Jersey lab — no collection kits required.
What this guide covers
Whether you are sexing day-old chicks, running genotype panels, or checking carrier status, the same collection fundamentals apply. Use this page as your reference from order to shipment.
Supplies & setup
Everything you need before you handle a bird — swabs, styptic powder, labeled tubes or filter paper, and clean tools.
Two collection methods
Step-by-step instructions for coffee filter paper and sterile 0.2 mL tubes. Both are accepted for all of our DNA tests.
Packaging & shipping
How to label samples, avoid cross-contamination, and mail blood samples safely to our lab.
Results in your dashboard
Once samples arrive, we run PCR-based testing and deliver digital results — often within 12–72 hours for gender sexing.
Why collection quality matters
A small drop of blood is all we need — but clarity and organization make the difference between a fast result and a re-test.
Protect sample integrity
Clean tools, dried filter paper, and sealed tubes prevent contamination so our lab can read your sample on the first pass.
Label every bird
Numbered tubes and bags that match your order notes keep results tied to the right chick — especially when testing a full hatch.
No kits, no delays
We do not ship collection kits. Collect at home with supplies you already have and mail directly to us when you are ready.
First-pass results
Clear, dry, well-labeled samples move straight through our lab — so you get answers on the first run instead of waiting on a re-collection.
Gather your supplies
Getting accurate poultry, gender sexing, and genotype test results starts with a clean, organized collection process. Before you begin, gather these essential supplies to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Alcohol swabs
For cleaning the collection site and maintaining sterility.
Styptic powder or any powder
A must-have to safely and instantly stop bleeding after collection.
Numbered tubes & baggies
Keep your samples clearly labeled (1, 2, 3) to match your birds perfectly.
Blood collection paper
A piece of coffee filter paper, ready for a single, neat drop of blood.
Sterile scissors
For clean, precise handling of your testing materials.
Love (highly recommended)
A calm bird and a steady hand make for the neatest drop of blood.
We recommend two primary methods for collecting samples.
Both methods are quick, safe, and ready for DNA testing. No collection kits required — mail your labeled samples directly to our lab.
0.2 mL tube method
1. Clip the toenail
Clip the toenail gently to produce a small drop of blood.
2. Collect in tube
Place the blood drop directly into a sterile 0.2 mL tube.
3. Seal, label, and store
Seal the tube tightly, label it clearly, and keep samples at room temperature until you mail them.
Coffee filter method
1. Cut the filter
Cut a coffee filter into small triangles — one per chick.
2. Clip the toenail
Clip the toenail gently to produce a small drop of blood.
3. Dab and dry
Touch the filter tip to the blood drop and let it dry completely.
4. Bag and label
Place the dried filter in a labeled ziplock bag.
5. Keep it clean
Use clean tools and a new bag for each chick to avoid cross-contamination.
Shipping your samples
After collection, package samples with your contact information and send them to our New Jersey lab. Room-temperature shipping is fine for dried filter paper and sealed tubes.
- 1
Match labels to your order
Write your name, email, and order number on the outside of the mailer. Each sample should be numbered to match the birds on your order.
- 2
Package securely
Place dried filter samples in labeled bags or sealed tubes in a small padded envelope. Avoid loose items shifting in transit.
- 3
Include contact details
Add a note inside with your phone number and the test type ordered so we can reach you if anything needs clarification.
- 4
Mail to our lab
Ship via your preferred carrier to Jersey Silkies DNA Lab in New Jersey. Standard mail is acceptable for properly dried samples.
Tips & common mistakes
A calm bird and a steady hand go a long way. Avoid these pitfalls to keep collection quick and your results reliable.
Let filter paper dry completely
Moist samples can smear or mold in transit. Lay filter triangles flat until fully dry before bagging.
Use a fresh bag or tube per bird
Never reuse collection materials between chicks — cross-contamination is the most common cause of inconclusive results.
Clip gently, stop bleeding quickly
A tiny toenail clip is enough. Apply styptic powder right away so the bird stays calm and the sample stays clean.
Do not refrigerate wet samples
Sealed tubes and dried paper can ship at room temperature. Refrigeration is unnecessary and can introduce moisture problems.
Test young chicks with confidence
Gender sexing is validated for chicks as young as one day old when the blood drop is clean and clearly labeled.
Reach out before mailing turkeys
Some turkey breeds require inquiry before submission. Contact support if you are sending turkey samples.
Ready to send your samples?
Order a test, collect at home with this guide, and receive digital results in your dashboard. Questions about collection or shipping? Our team is here to help.