General Pathogens

Targeted testing for general pathogens allows risks to be identified and controlled at an early stage.

All information at a glance

Bird species differ significantly in their metabolism, immune system, behavior, and habitat. These factors influence which pathogens they are exposed to and how susceptible they are to them.

Conversely, pathogens have specialized in their hosts. For example, some virus variants can cause severe disease in certain bird species, while they cause no illness in others. Therefore, species-specific diagnostics are crucial for detecting infections early and taking targeted action.

These DNA analyses apply exclusively to psittacine birds such as parrots, parakeets, cockatoos and loris, as the underlying tests are pathogen-specific for this group of birds. If your birds do not fall into this group, please select the DNA test “all other bird species.”

  • Polyomavirus
    French Molt, Budgerigar Fledgling Disease Virus (BFDV, APV)
    1-3 analyses = €21.00 each
    4 or more analyses = €20.00 each
  • Circovirus – Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)

1-3 analyses = €21.00 each
4 or more analyses = €20.00 each

  • Chlamydia – Chlamydiosis
    1-3 analyses = €24.20 each
    4 or more analyses = €23.10 each
  • Herpesvirus – Pacheco’s Disease
    1-3 analyses = €21.00 each
    4 or more analyses = €20.00 each
  • Aspergillosis – Fungal infection
    1-3 analyses = €24.20 each
    4 or more analyses = €23.10 each
  • Bornavirus – Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD)
    1-3 analyses = €31.50 each
    4 or more analyses = €29.40 each

The broad-spectrum DNA test detects various variants of a pathogen and is suitable for many bird species. Unlike parrot-specific virus tests, this is a cross-species screening rather than specialized diagnostics tailored to a specific bird group.

  • Broad-spectrum Polyomaviruses
    1-3 analyses = €27.30 each
    4 or more analyses = €25.20 each
  • Broad-spectrum Circoviruses
    1-3 analyses = €27.30 each
    4 or more analyses = €25.20 each
  • Chlamydia – Chlamydiosis
    1-3 analyses = €24.20 each
    4 or more analyses = €23.10 each
  • Aspergillosis – Fungal infection
    1-3 analyses = €24.20 each
    4 or more analyses = €23.10 each

  • Pigeon Herpesvirus (PiHV)
    1-3 analyses = €21.00 each
    4 or more analyses = €20.00 each
  • Broad-spectrum Polyomaviruses
    1-3 analyses = €27.30 each
    4 or more analyses = €25.20 each
  • Pigeon Circovirus (PiCV)
    1-3 analyses = €21.00 each
    4 or more analyses = €20.00 each
  • Adenovirus (FAdV)
    1-3 analyses = €21.00 each
    4 or more analyses = €20.00 each
  • Young Pigeon Disease (YPD) – Virus screening for Herpes, Circo, and Adenovirus
    1-3 analyses = €42.00 each
    4 or more analyses = €39.90 each
  • Aspergillosis – Fungal infection
    1-3 analyses = €24.20 each
    4 or more analyses = €23.10 each

  • Polyomaviruses
    Blood or freshly plucked feathers (3-4 pieces, at least 4 cm long)
  • Circoviruses
    Blood combined with freshly plucked feathers (3-4 pieces, at least 4 cm long)
  • Chlamydia
    Blood or cloacal swab
  • Herpesviruses
    Blood or freshly plucked feathers (3-4 pieces, at least 4 cm long)
  • Avian Bornaviruses (PDD)
    Freshly plucked feathers (5-6 pieces, at least 4 cm long)
  • Aspergillosis
    Tracheal swab

Important:

The sensitivity of the analyses used depends significantly on the condition and type of sample material submitted.

For example, Circoviruses can be found in blood but not at all times in feather samples. Bornaviruses, on the other hand, can be detected much better and over a longer period in feathers than in blood samples.

Please always send us the sample material specified by us so that we can ensure the greatest possible reliability of the examinations.

Ensure sufficient hygiene during sampling, such as clean hands and the use of fresh bags and envelopes.

Feather samples to be tested for pathogens must be plucked using disposable gloves to avoid cross-contamination. Never touch the quill with your bare hand, as this can lead to contamination.

Change gloves between sampling different birds.

For some pathogen detections, it is necessary to additionally submit a blood sample or a cloacal swab. You can also collect these samples yourself, but should consult a veterinarian if you are unsure. A drop of blood on a clean cotton swab or a cotton bud is sufficient for the analysis.

Send the sample in an envelope together with the completed order form or a handwritten DIN A4 sheet with the following information: client, requested analysis/analyses, bird species, ring number/identification, date, and signature.

DNA analysis process in the laboratory

  • Sample preparation of the submitted test material (e.g., swab, blood, tissue, feather)

  • Extraction of genetic material – including the DNA or RNA of potential pathogens

  • PCR analysis – targeted amplification of pathogen-specific DNA sequences of bacteria or viruses

  • Evaluation and quality control – interpretation of results including positive and negative controls

  • Findings and classification – clear statement on the presence or absence of the pathogen

Two ways to DNA analysis – choose what suits you

Order – Digital

  • Recommended for fast online processing

The fast and cost-effective way: Order your DNA analysis online and receive the results conveniently as a digital certificate in your own archive. Transparent, efficient, and accessible at any time, wherever you are.

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Order – Paper form

  • Recommended for classic documentation

The classic way to DNA analysis: Submit your samples with an order form and receive the results as an official certificate in paper form. Ideal for everyone who values printed documentation.

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