Sequences for the CHD-W and CHD-Z genes from <i>Spheniscus demersus </i>from guano-sourced DNA samples

The monitoring of sex ratios in wild populations of the critically endangered African penguin <i>Spheniscus demersus </i>is essential for conservation management but is currently limited by the inherent difficulty in acquiring blood samples required for sexing. This study developed a noninvasive method for the DNA extraction and PCR-based genetic sexing of <i>S. demersus </i>using guano and molted feather samples. Two primer sets (CHD1F/R &amp; 2550F/2718R) were used that target sex-specific length polymorphisms in the CHD1-Z and CHD1-W genes on the CHD1 sex chromosomes. Using methods optimized for the extraction of DNA from inhibitor rich guano and difficult to lyse molted feather samples, this work can directly contribute to the conservation monitoring of wild <i>S. demersus </i>populations through sex determination using noninvasive means.<br>The two sequences here are from Sanger sequencing of PCR amplified products from DNA extracted from guano of <i>Spheniscus demersus </i>chicks for the purpose of genetic sexing via non-invasive means.