Novelty is defined as new experiences or situations experienced by an individual. Novelty can involve single or multiple sensory systems, stimulate the memory and intelligence, and tickle a ferret's curiosity. Just placing a ferret in a pile of leaves can be extremely stimulating, and the same pile of leaves can be "new" after a neighbor's dog rolls in it, or rain falls on them. Tui LOVES snorkeling under leaves, and you can tell by the expression on his face that he is interested, curious, and stimulated. Allowing novelty into a ferret's life can be as easy as bringing a tub of leaves into the playroom. http://homepage.mac.com/billgruber/tui.html Randomly varying the times of common events helps to create interest and possibly helps to prevent stereotypic behaviors. Mickey Moose loves his outdoor explorations, but never knows exactly when the big double doors to the garden enclosure will open. When there is activity near the doors, Mickey Moose becomes visibly excited, anticipating his period of outdoor fun. Not knowing when a favored activity will occur, but knowing that it might happen, encourages interest in the surrounding environment, and mimicks the randomness experienced in nature. http://homepage.mac.com/billgruber/mickey.html Bob C [Posted in FML issue 4191]