How do you know when a squirrel is "wild" enough to be released?

[Mel1959]

I got my boys Feb 23rd. They were approx. 5 wks old. They transitioned to the release cage about 5 wks ago. They continue to jump on me when I enter their cage to replace branches, etc. One is definitely more gentle and interested in being on me than the other, but neither are scared or act wild. So, do I keep them for a few more months and hope they develop some "wild" skills like Sabrina did after an extended period of time? Or do I let them go and pray they are savvy enough to manage in my neighborhood? I am in Florida and there is not a huge canopy of trees, but also not a lot of flying predators. I live towards the end of a cul-de-sac, so there is also not a lot of traffic. Obviously, there isn't an issue with winter temps and release, either.

In my gut I believe that one of my boys has far fewer survival skills because he is the one that is less cautious and doesn't alarm when necessary like his brother does. He has always been the one most attached to me. I am certain they have the best chance for survival if they are released together, right?

Could everyone please give me some ideas of what to look for to recognize that they are ready to be free in the trees? Thanks.

[Rhapsody]

During their 30 days outside in the release cage it's best for you not to have any contact with the squirrels other than feeding times so they can wild up, not relying on you as they once did.

[ALittleNutty]

This is a great thread covering soft releases. I also limit my interaction although it's hard to do. We just love them so much but a life in the trees is the ultimate goal. Of course I have one that has decided to homestead and still gets on me when I go outside and he's been free for almost 4 months now.

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?41071-SOFT-RELEASE-The-How-to-Sticky&highlight=soft+release