SEE ALL OF OUR POULTRY SUPPLIES

Pullorum Testing for Chickens and Poultry

Pullorum Testing is a critical form of poultry health testing used to detect Pullorum disease and Fowl Typhoid in chickens, turkeys, and other domestic poultry. These highly contagious bacterial diseases are caused by Salmonella pullorum and Salmonella gallinarum and can spread quickly through flocks if left undetected. Regular Pullorum testing helps poultry owners protect flock health, comply with regulations, and prevent costly disease outbreaks.

What Is Pullorum Testing?

Pullorum testing is a diagnostic screening process designed to identify birds that are infected with or carrying Pullorum disease or Fowl Typhoid—even when no visible symptoms are present. Birds can carry these diseases silently and transmit them through eggs, droppings, shared equipment, or direct contact. Testing allows infected birds to be identified early, reducing the risk of spreading disease throughout a flock or to other poultry owners.

How Pullorum Testing Works

The most common method used is a blood agglutination test. A certified Pullorum tester collects a small drop of blood from the bird’s wing vein and mixes it with a standardized antigen solution on a testing plate. If the blood reacts (agglutinates), it indicates exposure to Pullorum disease or Fowl Typhoid. Results are typically visible within minutes.

Official Pullorum testing must be performed by a state-authorized or NPIP-certified tester. After testing, proper documentation is issued showing the test date, results, and certification status. This paperwork is often required for poultry shows, sales, breeding programs, and interstate transport.

Why Pullorum Testing Is Necessary

Pullorum disease is especially dangerous because it spreads easily and has no effective treatment once birds are infected. It is commonly transmitted from hen to chick through eggs, resulting in high chick mortality and severe losses for breeders and flock owners. Because of these risks, Pullorum testing is a cornerstone of the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) and is required or strongly recommended in most states.

Routine testing helps protect individual flocks, reduces disease transmission at poultry events, and supports nationwide efforts to keep poultry populations healthy.

Who Needs Pullorum Testing?

• Backyard chicken keepers
• Poultry breeders and hatcheries
• Show and exhibition poultry owners
• 4-H and FFA poultry participants
• Anyone selling live birds, hatching eggs, or chicks
• Poultry owners transporting birds across state lines

Most poultry shows, fairs, auctions, and swap meets require proof of a negative Pullorum test before birds are allowed to enter. Without current documentation, birds may be denied entry or removed from the event.

Benefits of Regular Pullorum Testing

• Protects flock health and productivity
• Prevents the spread of contagious poultry diseases
• Ensures compliance with state and NPIP regulations
• Allows participation in poultry shows, sales, and exhibitions
• Builds trust with buyers when selling birds or eggs
• Demonstrates responsible poultry ownership and biosecurity practices

How Often Is Pullorum Testing Required?

Pullorum testing requirements vary by state and bird use. Many states require testing once per year, while others require testing within 60–90 days of a show, sale, or exhibition. Breeding flocks often follow stricter testing schedules to maintain NPIP certification. Always verify local and state requirements to stay compliant.

Why Poultry Owners Should Prioritize Pullorum Testing

Whether you raise poultry for eggs, breeding, showing, or resale, Pullorum testing is a simple yet powerful way to protect your birds and your investment. Even small backyard flocks can unknowingly introduce disease to other poultry populations. Staying current with Pullorum testing helps ensure long-term flock health, biosecurity, and peace of mind.

Pullorum Testing as Part of Poultry Health Management

Pullorum testing is more than a regulatory requirement—it is an essential component of responsible poultry care. Regular testing supports disease prevention, protects breeding programs, and ensures birds remain eligible for transport, sale, and exhibition. For anyone raising poultry, Pullorum testing is a key step in maintaining a healthy and sustainable flock.