How to properly collect material for testing:
1) feathers - approximately 8-10 freshly plucked pieces are required, avoiding downy feathers (the quill is most important). Sign with ring number and species of bird.
2) blood - the cleaned and disinfected fingertip shall be pricked with a sterile needle or pricker - individual for each bird. The material should be applied to a sterile swab, coffee filter or cotton bud. Do not collect on tissues, toilet paper or gauze. Place a single sample in a zipped pouch or envelope. Sign with the ring number and species of bird.
