Many parrots are considered endangered species due to threats from human activities. Gender determination is of great importance for biological studies and the conservation of endangered parrots. However, like other birds, gender determination in parrots is hindered due to the lack of external dimorphism between males and females. A molecular approach using the chromo-helicase-DNA binding protein 1 (CHD1) gene is commonly used for sexing birds. This study aimed to determine the gender of parrots from Korean zoos based on amplification and visualization of the partial CHD1 gene. The samples of 13 parrot species were collected from three different zoos in Korea and the extracted DNA templates were amplified using CHD1 gene primers. The gender of 27 samples of 13 species was determined by visualizing the PCR products on an agarose gel. While male parrots were indicated by a single band, female parrots were indicated by double bands. The findings provide additional information, which might be helpful for the management and care of parrots in Korean zoos.

Abstract
INTRODUCTION
MATERIALS AND METHODS
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
REFERENCES

• Jung-il Kim(Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University)
• Thinh Dinh Do(Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University)
• Tae-June Choi(Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University)
• Yonggu Yeo(Conservation and Health Center, Seoul Zoo)
• Chang-Bae Kim(Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung University) Corresponding author