Feather barbs as a good source of mtDNA for bird species identification in forensic wildlife investigations.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The ability to accurately identify bird species is crucial for wildlife law enforcement and bird-strike investigations. However, such identifications may be challenging when only partial or damaged feathers are available for analysis.

Results

By applying vigorous contamination controls and sensitive PCR amplification protocols, we found that it was feasible to obtain accurate mitochondrial (mt)DNA-based species identification with as few as two feather barbs. This minimally destructive DNA approach was successfully used and tested on a variety of bird species, including North American wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), Canada goose (Branta canadensis), blue heron (Ardea herodias) and pygmy owl (Glaucidium californicum). The mtDNA was successfully obtained from 'fr

SUBMITTER: Speller CF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3199791 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature