One thing that, I must admit, dissapoints me about several breeders on this list is the interest in breeding specific physical qualities and within specific bloodlines. It seems to serve as an exceptionally clear reminder that very few people are truly qualified to foster good breeding on the part of their mustelids. I observed Edward Lipinski, the founder of the Ferrets Northwest shelter and ferret welfare society, demonstrating not only a great familiarity with the medical, nutritional, and reproductive aspects of ferrets, but an understanding of the concept of genetic diversity and it's effect on the health of future generations. I also observed that he keeps breeding information of all of his ferrets, including their parents and some miscellaneous genetic information, even though he does not, himself, breed and sell ferrets. These activities are the sign of true competance and skill that are so rare among breeders, and I find it haunting that these traits are so difficult to find. Hats off to you, Lipinski. - Matthew Oesting --- --- "Put the skunk back into the box..." - Ralph Oesting --- [Posted in FML issue 2225]