The proper identification of the sex of birds at an early stage has numerous positive applications in a wide range of different fields, such as agriculture and wildlife conservation. This study examined the accuracy of sex determination of birds with a DNA commercial kit manufactured by Zeewee. DNA was extracted from eggshells collected from various different birds, such as chickens, quail, ducks, turkeys, geese, and pheasants. Since the kit was developed specifically for chickens, one goal was to determine the accuracy of using the test with other species. The study also focused on the assessment of the effects associated with the aging process and storage conditions of the eggshells. From our pilot study and research, it is expected that the kit will successfully determine sex in most species tested across all our variables. The methods used and the overall findings regarding the differences will be discussed within the presentation.
Destiny Hayes is a graduating senior of Biology. She received the Biology prize in her junior year. In her spare time she breeds an assortment of poultry, reptiles, and rabbits.