Felid sex identification based on noninvasive genetic samples

We developed two tests for sex identification of felids using y-chromosome deletions in the zinc-finger and amelogenin regions. These tests provide positive results for both males and females, while reducing the need to co-amplify microsatellites to test for DNA quality in hair and scat samples. Furthermore, the y-chromosome deletions are absent in a wide-range of prey species; thus, when these tests are used on scat samples, potential contamination caused by prey DNA incidentally extracted, is minimized.