03/11/07

That is a very interesting and clarifying message from Michael Hobbs. But back to mine as an example, I eventually succomed to the expensive temptation to have my mtDNA completely sequenced, after having the usual HVR1 & HVR2 non-coding (D loop) regions tested. Unfortunately for my credit card, I had it done before the recent price drop. Now you can get it done for around $500.

I don't know how human mitochondria compare to birds and mammals, so I won't speculate on those. But the secondary report I received, after the initial cold facts report, shows information that one should show to their doctor. Especially if they have any unusual mutatiions that might predispose a person to an inherited disease!

I know this isn't strictly to do with birds, so I sugest anyone irritated by this message quickly press their delete button.

Happy Spring Birding!

Phil Hotlen
Bellingham, WA
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