Dear Ferret Folks- Yesterday Julie wrote: >Keep them in an area that has the most 'normal' lighting conditions >possible, and let them have as much free roam as possible. Provide >several hidey areas that are dark and hidden for them to burrow into. Over the last few years I've heard a lot of mention of "nesting boxes", essentially an artificial burrow for our fuzzies. It has even been suggested (although not proven) that giving them a truly dark place to sleep, as opposed to one affected by the artificial lighting schedule that we humans keep, might help stave off adrenal disease. Well, I figured what the heck, I'd give it a shot. Their polecat ancestors lived in burrows, I'd make them a burrow. If it helps stave off adrenal disease, that's just a plus. Here is what I did: Imagine a cardboard box as tall as a 10 gallon aquarium, but only half as long. I cut a round hole in one side, low down, almost flush to the ground. I halfway filled the box with the ladies usual soft bedding. Fleece sleepy sacks, and the little crocheted blankies that I make for them. I got an aluminum dryer vent hose at the hardware store, a piece about four feet long, and I wedged it into that hole that I had carved, and duct taped it in place, making sure there were no sharp metal edges. I taped down the lid,leaving me with a closed box that was completely dark inside, and could only be entered by that one tunnel. It took Switch and Lily about 30 seconds to figure out that this was their new bed. I mean, they accepted it immediately. I lifted up the lid once or twice early on, and I found two little breathing furry balls nestled in the pile of soft. I bet it's nice and quiet in there, peaceful. They're pretty well insulated against household noise. I take out the bedding to wash from time to time, and they have *never* pooped in the corners. I think this is a good option if you have free roamers, or a ferret room. Just be sure that your box wasn't used to store motor oil or some bad chemicals, because they have to breathe in there! If you are into crafts or stenciling or something like that, you have a box to work with. Again, just make sure that you don't cover it with icky chemichal glues or paints. I'm sure you could come up with something that looked cool, and was non-toxic. Alexandra in MA [Posted in FML issue 4793]