I have never heard a caution against an older male having pups in all my
years of gerbil keeping. It is not mentioned in any of my vet texts dealing
with exotics either. I really don't see why there would be a problem if he
gets along well with the female and there are no other potential
environmental stressors (tank too small, change in bedding, change in
location).
Jill
----------
> From: Julie Thomas <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: Prospective intro
> Date: Tuesday, March 20, 2001 8:54 AM
>
> Hi folks, I am still considering what to do about my lone female,
> Goldie. I had asked a little while back if a 3-year-old male was still
> likely to be fertile. The answer I got was essentially, "Quite
> possibly."
>
> Upon further reflection, I'd have to get another tank anyway, so why
> not see how Goldie and Zooty get along. If they have a litter, I'll
> separate them after they raise the pups and give them each a same-sex
> pal. If that 2nd litter appears from the post-birth mating, I'll find
> homes for them. Or keep them.
>
> My remaining concern is that Deb indicated that an older male might be
> stressed by having pups and kill them. Has anyone else had this
> experience? (Not doubting your word and expertise, Deb, just wanting to
> get feedback from others too.)
>
> I could place Goldie with Pippin, my other lone male, who is a bit
> younger (pushing 2 1/2). I would prefer to place her with Zooty, since
> Zooty's temperament is a bit nicer.
>
>
>
> =====
> Julie & Michael (homo sapiens)
> Alex P. Kitten & The Little Rascal (felis catus)
> Zooty (RIP Reebo); Pippin; Sparky & Norman; Bossy, Baby, & Goldie
(meriones unguiculatus)
> <Two humans with 2 cats and seven gerbils>
>
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