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Subject: unplanned parenthood
Posted by Linda Schuster on July 25, 1998 at 10:29:56:

We purchased a trio (2 females and a male) from a typical open market pet store in downtown Manila in late May. On July 15th we were surprised to discover a closed eyed youngster tenaciously attached to Bashful, protected by Grumpy, and seemingly being suffocated by Happy! The next day we were surprised doubley! Our original intent was to "rescue" at least three of these amazing animals from the conditions they and about twenty others at this shop were living in.We are at a locked down job site in Quezon province, and I am an "empty nester for the first time.Our trio has an entire bedroom to themselves with a "habitat" of bamboo poles thick rope, and plastic net draped around to form a "jungle gym" of sorts. I built a nest box with a sliding roof for access and cleaning, and continue to give them food inside their cage. So far I have only fed them Science Diet kitten food and a variety of fruit. Their favorites are mango and watermellon.I've offered them several fresh veggies, but they don't seem to like anything but carrots.We are in a communications "black hole", so today is the first access I've had for info. It's been great and I've learned a lot. I guess we did something right or we wouldn't have little ones. I have a linoleum floor in their room which I clean daily with a little bleach. Aside from needing some calcium supplement their diet is close to what I've read about, their environment big, clean, and entertaining.I keep the temperature about 76F. They lined their nest box with supplies raided from my craft supply shelves(the only furniture in there). We've been amused at some of their choices (a small American Flag and shishkabob sticks), and learned a lot just by observing them, which is areal trick in a dark room.I don't know if the babies are boy or girl, as none of the gliders were tame when we got them. They tolerate our intrusions now, even with little ones, and armed with new information about bonding we may even become friends.I'd like to bring them back to Arizona with me when we return next year. I've already found a good home for the adults if I can't bring them, but am hoping to at least bring the youngsters. Can Anyone advise me on the possibility? Any other suggestions. Resources for dietary supplements are very limited. Even kitten food is a five hour drive away.
Thanks, Linda

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