*Please do not choose this option for Silkies who do not yet have real feathers. This does not work with chick down. Please use blood spots on a plain piece of white paper or an index card for silkies that aren’t old enough to have real feathers yet.
DNA Testing – Extended Black Gene
$18.00
Extended Black Feathering Test (MC1R Gene – E Allele Detection)
The Extended Black gene, known as E and located on the MC1R (Melanocortin 1 Receptor) gene, is a dominant mutation that significantly increases the production of eumelanin (black pigment) in feathers. This results in a bird with solid black or very dark plumage, often overriding the expression of other color genes beneath it.
This test detects the presence or absence of the E allele, allowing breeders to determine whether a bird carries the gene responsible for extended black feathering.
Tested in our own lab. No shipping charges, results post to your account in about 2 to 3 business days after your samples arrive.
How to collect a feather sample
- Pluck 3 to 5 growing feathers from the chest or back. Pull them out, do not cut them.
- Check that the soft quill tip is attached to each one. That tip holds the DNA, a cut feather will not work.
- Put each bird's feathers in their own labelled paper envelope or a small ziplock.
- Mail the envelopes to us in a regular stamped envelope.
Takes about a minute per bird. No vet visit, and nothing ships to you first.
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