Suzi & Kelly, I have a `love biter`, who is the alpha male & the oldest member of my brood! Of course, usually the boss! He does the licking, licking, LATCHING thing, but when he first started this 5 yrs. ago, a gentle tap w/one finger on the nose until he "lightened up" on his grip, then let loose, finally worked! He still does it today, but when his `light` clamp after licking begins to titen, words like... nnNNOOO, or OW, OW ,OW, are all that is needed to cease the increasing pressure, he stops with a few final licks, and more play!! I , personally, think it is like suckling, a re-assurance that I am still there for him. Just my opinion, as each ferret `may` have a different agenda in mind.! john r. & the gang. p.s.- He usually picks the `inside` of my forearm, the thinest part of the skin!! & he knows it!! jdr. [Posted in FML issue 4642]