Swab Collection — Oral (Choanal) & Cloacal

Use this guide to collect a clean DNA sample for gender/trait/Coryza testing.

What You Need

  • Nylon‑flocked swabs: One Example Any Nylon Flocked Swabs work!
  • Small ziplock bags (one per bird)
  • Pen/marker for labeling (use a simple color like Yellow)
  • plain white paper to stabilize the bird
  • Optional: a helper; small flashlight

Important Before You Start

  • One swab = one bird. Do not share swabs.
  • Do not wet the swab with water, alcohol, or saliva.
  • Air‑dry the swab before capping (10–15 minutes).
  • Label each bag with Bird ID/Name before you collect.
  • Avoid collecting right after the bird has eaten or defecated.

Option A — Oral / Choanal Swab (Mouth)

This option targets epithelial cells inside the mouth and along the choanal slit on the roof of the beak.

  1. Prepare: Gently secure the bird. Have your labeled tube open and ready.
  2. Open the beak and locate the choanal slit (V‑shaped opening on the palate).
  3. Collect: Roll the nylon swab with firm, gentle pressure along the choanal slit and inner cheeks for 5–10 seconds.
  4. Avoid: Tongue only, feed debris, or external feathers.
  5. Dry: Hold the swab in clean air for 10–15 minutes so the tip is fully dry.
  6. Bag: Place the fully dried swab into a small, labeled ziplock bag and seal. If the stick is too long, cut the stick (do not cut the tip).

Tips for Success

  • A steady, firm roll against the tissue gives the best DNA yield.
  • If the swab touches feed or litter, discard and use a fresh swab.

Option B — Cloacal Swab (Vent)

This option targets epithelial cells from the inner lining of the cloaca.

  1. Prepare: Gently secure the bird and lift the tail. Have your labeled ziplock bag ready.
  2. Insert: Gently place the swab tip just inside the cloaca (~0.5–1 cm).
  3. Collect: Rotate with light pressure against the inner lining for 5–10 seconds.
  4. Avoid: Heavy fecal contamination. If the tip becomes soiled, use a new swab.
  5. Dry: Air‑dry the swab for 10–15 minutes.
  6. Bag: Place the fully dried swab into a small, labeled ziplock bag and seal. If the stick is too long, cut the stick (do not cut the tip).

Tips for Success

  • A firm but gentle contact with the inner lining is key.
  • If the bird strains or defecates, pause, clean the area, and use a fresh swab.

Packaging & Shipping

  • Ensure each swab is fully dry before sealing the ziplock bag.
  • One swab per bag; one bag per bird.
  • Write a simple ID on each bag (e.g., Yellow).
  • Place all labeled bags into any standard envelope or box and mail however you prefer. Room temperature is fine. Avoid extreme heat.
  • Do not add liquids or preservatives.

Labeling Example

  • Bag label: Yellow
  • Use a different color word for each bird (e.g., Yellow, Blue, Green).

Common Collection Mistakes (and Fixes)

  • Swab looks clean/unused → Use firmer contact and the full 5–10 seconds.
  • Swab is wet when capped → Re‑collect and ensure a 10–15 min air‑dry.
  • Swab contaminated with feed/feces → Discard and repeat with a fresh swab.
  • Mixed birds on one swab → Not accepted; use one fresh swab per bird.

Questions?

If you’re unsure whether a swab is acceptable, send a photo to support with your order number. We’re happy to help before you ship.

Thank you for choosing The Silkie Lab!

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Pullidex is the avian DNA testing lab formerly known as The Silkie Lab.