Hi Gang I responded privately to this but thought I would send to the list. I did not want another spring scale and found a digital one on ebay (www.ebay.com). It is a 25lb digital Oster accurate in lbs and ounces with an automatic shut off. I got this one as the platform was big enough to hold a collander (to hold the ferrets) with a tare function. I do not know how long it goes before the auto shut off but plenty of time to turn on and go find a critter. it was $50 plus shipping and works great. Care Michael Broadston [Posted in FML issue 2728]