After two seasons of genetic selection of reproducers thanks to the analysis of the mitochondrial DNA of thousands of samples, in 2021 the third reproductive season within the project involves the analysis of the genetic variability of hundreds of individuals that will be released in late summer. Genetic screening will be carried out by Ispra through the use of nuclear markers (STR – Short Tandem Repeats) both on the juveniles in the release phase and in the post-release Mezzano, starting from biological traces (such as feathers) found on the territory.

In fact, through STR analysis it is possible to profile the DNA by identifying every single genetic fingerprint in order to limit inbreeding.