determining avian sex based on external features can be challenging.
Accurate gender identification in animals is crucial for veterinary, medical, and ecological research. However, determining sex based on external features can be challenging, as over 50% of bird species are monomorphic, meaning males and females appear identical.
Traditional methods, such as observing sex-specific behaviors, laparoscopy, laparotomy, or cloacal examination, are often time-consuming, costly, and, in some cases, invasive or risky.
QubeMDx+™
Avian Sexing Examination Kit
REGISTRATION STATUS
Research Use Only
To overcome the limitations of traditional sexing methods, molecular sexing techniques using non-invasive samples like feathers have been developed. The difference in Chromo-Helicase DNA-binding (CHD) gene length between the Z and W chromosomes distinguishes males (ZZ) from females (ZW). This method enables reliable sex identification from unknown samples.

The most suitable primer set can be selected based on the species to be sexed, or multiple sets can be tested for the best match. Each primer set works for a range of species, as listed below [1]. Note that this list is a guide, not exhaustive. Please consult the relevant literature for your avian species or contact us for further assistance.

Overcoming the Limitations of Traditional Sexing Methods
Ready to Use
- Lyophilized PCR reagents kit
- Loading dye included
- Positive control included
Rapid Result
- Obtain amplified PCR around an hour
- < 2 minutes hands-on time
Ambient Storage
- No need for refrigeration
Diagnostic Procedure

QubeMDx+™ Avian Sexing Examination Test
Catalog No.
PCRCR4101 (primer set: P2/P8/P0)
PCRCR4102 (primer set: 2550F/2718R)
PCRCR4103 (primer set: CHD1F/CHD1R)
Technology
PCR
Hands-on Time
< 2 min
Turnaround Time
Approximately 1 hour
Kit Storage
5 – 25 °C / 41 – 77 °F
Quantity
48 tests/box
Targets
CHD-W / CHD-Z gene
Sample Types
Feather / Blood
Reference
[1] Optimal primer sets for avian species are referenced from: Çakmak, Emel, ÇiğdemAkınPekşen, and C. Can Bilgin, “Comparison of three different primer sets for sexing birds,” Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation 29.1 (2017): 59-63)