> I know that pups normally open their eyes around 18 days what is the
> longest and shortest period for eye opening?
>
Around 16-24 days.
> Can runts go on to be successful breeders and do they live as long?
I would avoid breeding runts, especially females, because you can never
really be sure WHY they're runts (unlucky, or a genetic problem) or if
they'll be successful anyway. I wouldn't assume they could breed, nor
assume they can't (like, don't leave them with boys and expect nothing
to happen ;)
>
> When the mother is still nursing pups I know that the gestation of the
> next litter can be postponed or come as normal. What is a general rough
> time to expect the second litter?
I've had moms who have them anytime between 26 days and several months
later. Generally, in the area of 28-40 days.
>
> Should I take out the pups before or after the second litter is born?
This depends on the mother.
> Should I leave only the females or only the males, or should I just
> leave both?
>
It depends.
> Are seeing nipples on the belly of a pup a safe way to think she is
> female?
Yep. But always double check later!
> Do male gerbils have nipples too like other animals?
>
No. At least they don't seem to. Weird like that.
> I give my gerbils balsa wood to knaw on from the hobby shop will this
> work to keep their teeth down and is it safe for them to have in the
> first place?
Hmmm I'm not sure. I suually give them cardboard and then S.A.M.'s
wooden houses to gnaw on.
>
> How often can you give millet?
Just give it as a treat now and then. I think someone mentioned once
that it acted as a stimulant in large quantities. How large? Dunno, bt
just be careful ;)
> Currently I am giving about a one - two inch long peice every 4-7 days.
Sounds fine.
Elizabeth
--
Secretary of the American Gerbil Society
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Shores/8181/AGS/
Breeder of healthy, colorful gerbils * Devoted Earth2 Fan
* Visit http://www.voicenet.com/~heckercw/elsewhere/ *
for more information about Earth2, my gerbils, Pomeranian & graphics
Specializing in: grey agouti and polar fox gerbils - wide range of
others too
Proud Member of E2:EA, GCM, & AGS - Proud Pom-Mom to Foxy!
