1. Stress and Lack of Nesting Resources:
* Stressful environment: If the mother gerbil is stressed due to overcrowding, lack of privacy, loud noises, or unfamiliar surroundings, she may become overwhelmed and resort to infanticide.
* Insufficient nesting materials: If the nest isn't adequate, the mother may feel compelled to eliminate some of her young to ensure the survival of the strongest.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies:
* Lack of calcium: This is a common reason. If the mother's diet lacks calcium, she may become confused about caring for her babies, potentially leading to infanticide.
* Other nutritional deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients can also contribute to stress and poor maternal care, leading to the mother rejecting or harming her babies.
3. Hormonal Imbalances:
* Postpartum stress: After giving birth, female gerbils can experience hormonal shifts that make them more vulnerable to stress and anxiety, which can manifest as aggression towards their pups.
4. Inbreeding:
* Genetic issues: Inbreeding can lead to weak offspring or offspring with genetic abnormalities. The mother gerbil may instinctively recognize these weaknesses and eliminate the pups.
5. Lack of Experience:
* First-time mothers: Young or inexperienced mothers may lack the proper maternal instincts and accidentally harm or kill their babies.
It's important to note: While these factors can play a role, infanticide in gerbils is not fully understood.
What can you do?
* Provide a safe and comfortable environment: Offer a spacious cage with adequate hiding places, nesting materials, and quiet surroundings.
* Ensure proper nutrition: Provide a balanced diet with plenty of calcium-rich foods like leafy greens.
* Monitor the mother's behavior: If you notice unusual behavior or signs of stress, consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
Remember, it's crucial to create a supportive and nurturing environment for your gerbils to minimize the risk of infanticide.