There is provided an apparatus and method for extracting a biological sample from a sample container. The apparatus comprising: a holder arranged in use to support a sample container; an extractor moveable in use between a first position disengaged from the container when the container is supported by the holder and a second position engaged with the container when the container is supported by the holder, the extractor being arranged in use to obtain matter from the container when in the second position; and an imager arranged in use to capture an image of the extractor at the first position when the extractor is moved from the second position to the first position and to identify, based on analysis of the captured image, when sample is present outside the container.