Getting Started
How does DNA sexing work?
Learn about the science behind bird sexing, how the method works, and what results to expect.
Choosing a method: Service or DIY?
DNA testing is a reliable way to determine a bird’s sex. But should you send your DNA away or test it yourself?
What do I need to start bird sexing?
Explore the essential equipment and materials that you’ll need to set up a bird sexing workflow for the first time.
Get Inspired
Solving the chick sexing challenge
See how Brittney Knight used Bento Lab to go from poultry enthusiast to running a professional bird sexing laboratory, without formal training in molecular biology.
White-bellied heron conservation
Bhutanese researcher Pema Khandu used Bento Lab in the Himalayas to bring science closer to the species he is aiming to protect: the white-bellied heron.
Advanced Workflow Resources
Scaling up: Workflow consumables
Once you begin running bird sexing PCR workflows regularly, consumables and reagent planning become an important part of maintaining efficient workflows.
Storing equipment & reagents
Practical recommendations and best practices for storing PCR equipment, reagents, and consumables in both ideal home setups and portable field-based environments.
Cost calculator
Scaling up to test more samples? Need to adjust reagents or consumables amounts? Plan your workflow using our cost calculator worksheet.
Guides for DNA Extraction
Guides for PCR
Want help choosing a primer set?
See our guide to help you choose a primer set for your birds.
PCR Guide for Primer Set 1
Run a PCR for primer pair CHD1F/CHD1R, suitable for chickens, songbirds, landfowl, waterfowl and others.
PCR Guide for Primer Set 2
Run a PCR for primer pair 2550F/2718R, suitable for pelicans, flamingos, birds of prey, storks and others.
PCR Guide for Primer Set 3
Run a PCR for primer pair P0/P2/P8, suitable for pigeons, doves and many parrots.
PCR Guide for Primer Set 4
Run a PCR for primer pair CHD1LF/CHD1LR, suitable for pigeons and a variety of other birds.
Advice for sexing parrots
Suggested primer set strategies for parrots, parakeets and other Psittaciformes birds.