Wow, had a close call with squirrels in a chimney once. A quick flashlight check saved us both a huge mess.

Get why you're hesitant to share your SCOBY. But the risk of someone getting sick from moldy kombucha is pretty low. Mold is easy to see and smell, so she'll know if it goes bad. If she forgets it, the worst that happens is she wastes some tea. You could give her a small starter with simple rules. Tell her to check it weekly.

You spent how long on just one flake?