Should they be released or not?

[Rhubarb]

Hey everyone,

For some of you, you might remember me from before about little Rhubarb and Henry, for those that don't, briefly, they are now 9 weeks and doing perfectly healthy and fine. I've had them since they were 3 - 5 days old.

I was dead set on releasing the little ones as they come of age and are ready to be on their own. As I've progressed along though, I've gotten quite attached to them as I did my first litter of babies. However, unlike my first litter- these 2 aren't pulling away from me. My behavior and habits with Rhubarb and Henry are much the same as they were with my first litter as well. And you never know- in the coming weeks they might get a little wilder. They are slowly weaning off of formula and are eating solid foods.

My question is, how horrible would I be if I kept them as my babies as they progress into older age? With all that I read online, squirrels do not make optimum pets: several stories on self mutilation, aggression, I'm in an illegal state so I don't have access to a vet if necessary, the list goes on. But I see so many squirrels getting killed. I live off the road some, but what if they travel to a place where vehicles are passing and get hit? Also, I saw this squirrel run into a rear vehicle the other day and it looks as if his leg got run over. Before I could get to him- he was hit again head on. I look at Henry and Rhubarb and think of all the time and love that was put into their well-being, the late nights, no sleep.. So again, am I selfish to want to keep them as mine? And taken into account proper nutrition and housing, what is the likelihood that they will live healthy with me into old age?

On the lighter side- here is a quick shot of the little fur balls last week, 8 wks. old.
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f344/Rhubarb_03/rubarbandhenryatabout7wkscropped2.jpg

And thank you to everyone in advance for your thoughts.

[rippie-n-lilgirlsmom]

When it comes to this decision I will say what is it that the squirrel wants?
They are a little young come 13-15 weeks they take on a new attitude in some cases.
Once the teeneager hormones kick in.
:tilt
Once again I would play it by ear and see how the squirrels feel.
They are beautiful and you did a great job.

[jme2323]

yeah, my boy wild-ed up majorly and it was clear he wanted to go out :) he lived a great life for years outside in my yard. it was tough to let go, but i still saw him all the time...

the good thing is that you rescued them and helped them...you did the part they needed most...maybe they will decide for you...but it will probably be obvious either way!!

good luck and enjoy the winter with them :) what sweeties!!!

[Rhubarb]

On the hormone subject, real quick- is it healthy for Rhubarb and Henry to house together since they are sister and brother? I actually saw his little "you know what" get a little hard recently and I'm not sure how healthy it is for siblings to intermingle.

And thank you Rippie and Gamma for the reality check. I needed it badly. I do travel often too and so far they have gone with me everytime, but I'm not entirely sure what the future will bring. And I am keeping my mind open to the fact that in a couple of weeks, they very well might decide that they would prefer to be on their own. My husband is able to stroke their little paws now, but along with me, they may decide to thump him in the future. And wholeheartedly- I want what is best for them. And best of all- I have nothing but time for them to show me what they need.

Thanks again for the insight. Will keep you posted.

[susanw]

Do you by chance know someone with alot of property that you could release them on? Of course they would have to put food out for them until they get use to finding their own.