Poultry DNA Testing Services

Research and Breeder Informational Use Only

Ederington Homestead offers non-diagnostic poultry DNA testing using validated PCR-based assays to identify specific, well-characterized genetic traits in chickens. These services are intended to support breeding decisions, educational projects, and genetic record keeping.

All testing is performed for research and informational purposes only and does not evaluate animal health or disease status.

Tests Offered

Our poultry DNA testing services focus on identifying specific, well-documented genetic traits that matter to breeders and backyard keepers alike. Each test provides clear, trait-specific results to support informed breeding decisions, flock planning, and long-term record keeping.

Blue Egg Gene

Identifies the presence of the oocyan allele (O) responsible for blue eggshell color.

Results may indicate:
oo – does not carry the blue egg allele
Oo – carrier of one blue egg allele
OO – homozygous for the blue egg allele

This test determines genetic potential for blue eggshell color only. It does not predict egg shade, intensity, or laying performance.

Lavender (Self-Blue) Gene

Detects the lavender (lav) allele associated with self-blue plumage coloration.

Results may indicate:
Non-carrier
Carrier (heterozygous)
Homozygous lavender

This test identifies genetic carriage only and does not assess feather quality or color expression.

Frizzle Gene

Detects the Frizzle (F) allele affecting feather structure.

Results may indicate:
Non-frizzle
Frizzle (heterozygous)
Homozygous frizzle

Because homozygous frizzle birds may exhibit reduced feather quality, results are provided for breeding information only. No health or welfare determinations are made.

Sex Determination

PCR-based identification of avian sex chromosomes.

Results indicate:
ZW – genetically female
ZZ – genetically male

This test is useful for early chick sexing and confirmation in non sex-linked crosses.

Why Poultry DNA Testing Matters

Poultry DNA testing gives breeders a clearer picture of what is happening genetically, beyond what you can see. It helps you plan pairings with more confidence, protect your breeding goals, and keep records you can trust as your program grows.

Confirm genetic carriers

Verify whether a bird carries a trait without test breeding. That saves time, reduces extra hatch cycles, and helps you make cleaner pairing decisions.

Reduce unexpected outcomes

Use results to plan matings with fewer surprises. Testing helps you narrow possibilities and avoid avoidable disappointments in the next generation.

Maintain accurate records

Document genetics with confidence so your records reflect reality, not assumptions. That matters when you are tracking lines, improving traits, and selecting breeders long term.

Who This Service Is For

Dedicated Poultry Keepers

For those who care about more than production and want birds that are genetically sound, intentional, and true to purpose. Poultry DNA testing provides clarity when phenotype alone isn’t enough, helping you make confident decisions without unnecessary test breeding.

Breeders Focused on Predictable Outcomes

Education and Long-Term Breeding Programs

Well suited for educational projects, youth programs, and long-term breeding plans where learning, documentation, and consistency matter. Poultry DNA testing supports genetic understanding and accurate recordkeeping while reinforcing thoughtful selection and sound husbandry.

This service is not intended for disease screening, regulatory compliance, or veterinary diagnostics.

To ensure accuracy and compliance, we do not offer DNA testing for:

Disease or disease resistance

Parasites or pathogens

Egg darkness (brown egg intensity)

Egg bloom, cuticle thickness,
or size

Shell thickness or strength

Temperament, vigor, or performance

What These Tests Do NOT Determine

These traits are influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors and cannot be reliably determined through single-gene PCR testing.

Results Reporting

Clients receive the following after testing is complete. Results are provided for informational and breeding decision support only and are not certificates or registrations.

A written report identifying detected alleles

You will receive a clear, written report identifying the genetic alleles detected for the specific poultry DNA test performed.

Basic inheritance interpretation (e.g., carrier vs homozygous)

Each report includes a simple interpretation of inheritance status, such as non-carrier, carrier, or homozygous, to support informed breeding decisions.

No breeding guarantees, certifications, or performance claims

Results reflect genetic presence only and do not guarantee phenotype expression, breeding outcomes, or performance traits.

Poultry DNA Testing Resources

From collecting samples to understanding your results, these guides are here to help you breed smarter, select stronger traits, and build your rainbow egg basket with confidence.

Important Disclaimer

All results are provided for research, educational, and breeder informational purposes only.

These tests do not diagnose disease, predict health, certify breeding quality, or replace veterinary care.

No veterinary interpretation or medical advice is provided.

This service is not intended for clinical or diagnostic use as defined by USDA or FDA.