To those concerned about possible feed-related problems at Marshall Farms
and Covent Farms.  It was stated that Covent Farms has experienced birth
defects.  The following may not be related, but just in case.  Path
Valley Farms in Harrisburg, PA, had and incident recently where they lost
some 3,000 ferrets.  It was found that the feed being supplied by Agway
contained way too much phosphorous, which caused depletion of calcium
levels in the adult ferrets leading to degeneration of the bone structure
and also gross birth defects in the newborns.  It was apparently a very
grisly scene.  Path Valley is now in legal proceedings against Agway.
Those concerned might want to double check with their local breeders too
make sure that they are not dealing with Agway, and also even if they are
not they might want to have the feed they are using lab analyzed.
[Posted in FML issue 1221]