Endocrinology Services:
Sample Collection
Morfeld Research & Conservation, LLC provides specialized endocrinology testing to support wildlife conservation, zoological management, and applied research. Our laboratory offers validated hormone analyses across a wide range of species and sample types, delivering reliable data to inform reproductive health, stress physiology, and overall endocrine function.
Collection Overview
Sample collection protocols are tailored to each client’s goals, so the frequency and duration of collection may vary depending on the questions being addressed. Our standard procedures for fecal sample collection and blood serum collection are outlined below. We also have established protocols for other specimen types, such as urine or feathers; clients should contact us directly for the appropriate guidelines for these samples.
Clients are welcome to reach out for assistance with collection planning and logistics, and upon request we provide a complete sample collection and shipping kit that includes labeled tubes, collection bags, ice packs, and all necessary materials to support proper handling and transport of samples.
Complete our new client form to contact our team about the samples you’re interested in testing.
New Client FormFecal Sample Protocol
Collect 3 fecal samples per week.
- Collect on non-consecutive days (e.g., Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays).
- Collect samples within 4 hours of defecation.
- Each sample should be roughly the size of a lime.
Place samples in a freezer-safe Ziplock bag and label with the following information in permanent marker:
- Facility Name
- Animal Name/ID
- Sex
- Date of Sample
- Time of Collection
Freeze samples immediately in a standard freezer to prevent possible degradation.
Download Protocol
Blood Sample Protocol
Collect 1 blood sample per week.
- Collect 1-2 tubes of blood from vein using an 8-mL red top serum separator vacutainer tube.
- Allow blood to clot for ~1 hour at room temperature, or for ~2 hours at refrigerated temperature. Avoid exposing blood to ambient temperatures for longer than 3 hours.
- Centrifuge blood (1000 x g for 10-15 min.) and decant serum into sample vials. Split serum among 2 vials, with no vial containing more than 3 mL serum.
Label with the following information in permanent marker:
- Facility Name
- Animal Name/ID
- Sex
- Date of Sample
- Time of Collection
Freeze samples immediately in a standard freezer to prevent possible degradation.
Download Protocol
Shipping Details
Please ship all samples in an insulated container with ice packs. Use next-day shipping to ensure timely delivery to the following address:
Morfeld Research & Conservation, LLC
Attn. Katie Campbell
2116 S. 156th Cir.
Omaha, NE 68130
Hormones Offered
Explore the endocrine analytes we test, including reproductive, adrenal, and metabolic hormones, with details on species compatibility and assay availability.
New Client Form
Submit your information to contact our team about the services you’re interested in.
