gerbal pregnancy

Question
i just got 4 female gerbils about 2 weeks ago.there were 2 males but i didn't take them.but i think the females were in the same cage with males. one female is getting bigger but the others aren't . one more is bigger but that one is the mom of the other 3 females. just a few days ago i realized the one  i think is pregnant "tiny" didn't look so tiny any more her belly looked bigger .i tried to do the hand test where you place the gerbil in your hand and if their  belly brushes your hand their probably pregnant but my gerbil wouldn't stay  still so i couldn't do it.i don't know any other way to tell if she is pregnant. i did some research but i can't  find anythig . can you please help me !!!!!!!!!!!!    
                  Sincerely, april

Answer
Hi April,

There aren't many signs to tell if your gerbil is pregnant.  Check and see if she's making a large nest in the corner of the cage, and if she's hoarding food.  These might be signs.  A gerbil is pregnant for 24 days, or 28 days, depending on the gerbil.  If your gerbil is in fact pregnant, she will have pups in a matter of days.  And also, if she is, here's a great website which will assist you in helping to raise the new pups:

http://www.agsgerbils.org/Gerbil_Care_Handbook/breeding.html

And, if she isn't, count your blessings, because gerbils can have up to 8 babies!

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly