This page explains how to prepare and ship samples to our laboratory in Japan. Please read carefully to avoid customs / quarantine issues and to maintain sample quality.
Please follow the same sample requirements shown on the order page.
- 3 or more large feathers (such as tail or wing)
- Molted (naturally shed) feathers are accepted
- Feathers with intact roots (calamus) are required
Down feathers or feathers without roots cannot be tested.
Tip: Avoid contamination by not touching the feather root with bare fingers.
View sample image
- 3 or more clean pieces of filter paper or cotton swabs
- Apply a very small drop of blood to each piece
Allow to air-dry completely before packaging.
If you are unsure about collecting blood safely, please consult a veterinarian.
View sample image
Proper packaging helps prevent DNA degradation in the sample and reduces the risk of customs issues.
1) Separate & label
- Place each bird’s sample in a separate clean zip bag.
- Label clearly with: bird species and bird name (optional), recommended when submitting multiple samples.
2) Sample storage
- Make sure blood samples are fully dry before sealing.
- Avoid high heat and direct sunlight during storage.
- Do not use alcohol/disinfectants on feathers or swabs.
We recommend EMS or another reliable international air mail service.
- Please send your sample to our laboratory in Japan via EMS or another reliable international air mail service.
- The laboratory address will be provided in the confirmation email.
- Airmail only: Avoid surface (sea) mail to reduce heat exposure and long transit time.
- We recommend using a shipping method with tracking.
Please confirm your bird is eligible before shipping.
- Birds with known or suspected infectious disease.
- Palaeognathae (primitive birds) such as ostrich and emu.
- CITES-regulated birds without appropriate registration / documentation.
- Poultry and related birds that may be subject to import restrictions in Japan, including: chicken, quail, pheasant, ostrich, emu, guinea fowl, turkey, duck, goose and relatives (order Anseriformes).
- Any other individuals/species that forbird reasonably determines to be difficult to test.
The customer is responsible for compliance with local laws and customs regulations.
- We cannot provide legal advice regarding export/import rules.
- We cannot guarantee customs clearance in any country/region.
- Any customs fees, taxes, or related charges are the customer’s responsibility.