• Colorful feathers in a clear plastic bag with PVS Labs logo.
1 1

PBFD PCR Test for Birds | Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Test

PBFD PCR Test for Birds | Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Test

$60.00 NZD
$60.00 NZD
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

PBFD PCR Test for Birds

Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) is a viral disease affecting parrots and other psittacine birds, caused by avian circovirus. This PCR test is designed to detect Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Virus (BFDV) using freshly plucked feather samples with intact quill bases.

Testing is performed through PVS Labs. Results are reviewed and interpreted by our avian veterinarian to help support accurate diagnosis and informed flock management decisions.

PBFD PCR testing may be considered in birds showing:

  • Feather abnormalities.
  • Feather loss.
  • Abnormal feather growth.
  • Beak changes.
  • Chronic illness.
  • Immunosuppression.
  • Delayed feathering in chicks.
  • Suspicion of circovirus exposure.
  • Pre-purchase screening.
  • Quarantine screening.
  • Breeding programme screening.

Important Information

This is a digital product. After purchase, you will receive instructions outlining how to collect and submit your sample for testing.

If you do not automatically receive your instructions and FEC submission form after purchase, please contact us at info@avianempire.co.nz.

Testing results should always be interpreted alongside clinical signs, husbandry, and veterinary guidance where appropriate.

Helpful Resources

Disease surveillance and quarantine protocols play an important role in long-term aviary and flock health management.

How it Works

Once you have purchased a Circovirus PCR from our site,

  1. You will be emailed a form.
  2. Print and complete the form.
  3. Pluck 2-3 feathers fresh from your chickens chest and put in a new/clean ziplock bag (do not use molted feathers)
  4. Mail the form and the sample to the address given.
  5. Results will be sent to Avian Empire to interpret and
  6. Avian Empire will then email the results on to you when they are received. 

Please allow approximately one week for results after your sample arrives at the lab.

What you are buying

  • A Marek's Disease PCR test for one chicken (performed on freshly plucked feathers) to be performed by PVS labs.
  • Results interpreted by our avian vet.  

What is Circovirus (PBFD)

Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects parrots and other psittacine birds. It is caused by psittacine beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), a circovirus. The disease primarily affects feather development, the beak, and the immune system, leading to abnormal feather growth or loss, beak deformities, immunosuppression, and in severe cases, death.

PBFD spreads easily between birds through feather dust, dander, and contaminated surfaces, making it a significant concern in aviaries and multi-bird households. There is no cure, so management focuses on early detection, strict hygiene, and biosecurity measures to reduce spread and support affected bi

Find out more below:

Marek's in poultry

Terms and Conditions

By purchasing a PCR test kit from Avian Empire, you agree to the following terms and conditions:

1. New Zealand Use Only

PCR testing services are available within New Zealand only. We cannot accept or process samples sent from overseas.

2. Non-Refundable Product

PCR test kits are non-refundable once purchased.

This includes situations where the kit is no longer required, samples are not collected, or samples are unable to be processed by the laboratory.

3. Sample Collection and Submission

  • You are responsible for collecting your sample following the instructions provided.
  • You are responsible for posting or couriering your sample to the designated laboratory.
  • Please keep your courier tracking number and receipt until results are returned.
  • Avian Empire is not liable for delays, losses, or damage that occur during shipping.

4. Packaging Requirements

  • Samples must be packaged securely to prevent leakage, contamination, or damage in transit
  • If a sample arrives at the laboratory leaking, contaminated, improperly packaged, or compromised, the laboratory will be unable to process it.
  • You will need to submit a new sample at your own cost, including any additional courier fees.

5. Laboratory Processing

  • All PCR testing is performed by an independent laboratory.
  • Turnaround times may vary depending on laboratory workload, sample quality, and courier delays.
  • Avian Empire is not responsible for laboratory processing delays.

6. Results

  • Results will be emailed to the contact details provided at checkout.
  • Results reflect only the sample submitted and should be interpreted in the context of flock history and clinical signs.
  • Veterinary follow-up may be recommended for treatment or flock-level management.

7. Liability

Avian Empire is not liable for:

  • Incorrect or unsafe sample collection
  • Poor packaging leading to leakage or contamination
  • Courier delays, losses, or failed delivery
  • Misinterpretation of results without veterinary guidance
  • Any decisions made based on test results without further consultation
View full details