Burrowing material

[psandy]

What would people recommend as the best burrowing material for a gerbilarium? I'm currently using recycled paper litter but it isn't cost-effective to keep buying it regularly. I was thinking about putting soil in next time (ie. compost from a garden centre). Is that ok?

P.S. A couple of the boys have been thumping quite loudly when they've been wandering around out of the cage. Could they be spooking each other or are they afraid of me? I just sit in the room with them while they're playing.

[Deleted]

shredded office paper is pretty good mixed with hay. might need cleaned more often but you would probably find some for free.

i wouldn't worry about the foot thumping. it's their way of saying to each other that they are alert for danger, or that there is danger. as prey animals they will be spooked by some things and they just have to get used to those things.