Abstract: Disclosed herein are cultures of undifferentiated avian primordial germ cells/blastodermal cells. The cultures are capable of maintaining their undifferentiated characteristic and also their capability of expressing the EMA-1 epitope for extended periods when cultured in the presence of an isolate from avian navel (e.g. turkey navel extract). Methods of culturing such cultures using avian navel extracts, and culture media containing avian navel extract are also disclosed. Recombinant birds derived from these cultures are also disclosed. These cultures can be frozen for long-term preservation of germ line genomes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of encapsulating digestible micronutrients or other additives within coatings which are indigestible by other than mechanical means, and the encapsulated additives. The invention includes a method for coating digestible micronutrients with indigestible polymers which can be mechanically broken down within the gizzards of avian species where the digestible micronutrients may be absorbed. The encapsulated additives are stabilized against degradation under harsh conditions within silos, and can be added directly to ensiled vegetable matter without chemical degradation of the encapsulated additive.

Abstract: A method of controlling a bird population in an area comprises administering to the female birds in the area an amount of a conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) which is effective to prevent their eggs from hatching. Baits containing the conjugated linoleic acid also are disclosed.