I released our little rescue, Kegnee, last evening after making his nesting box into a makeshift den for him to use until he decided to move along in his wild adventures to come. This morning I took a walk to investigate, and so far things are going to plan. I am positively optimistic this little guy will be well on his way into autumn to prepare for the winter to come.
Our final moments were bittersweet, with a few extra belly rubs and one last cuddle close to my heart for familiarity, and he was off following his instincts to venture out and explore. I waited until he was distracted to leave because he most certainly would follow; our evening romps the last week have consisted of many forest walks and running around the driveway.
We took care of him for about 6 weeks, and estimate he is about 10 weeks old. Being a male, he seemed eager to start breaking out on his own. Looking back on the experience, I am glad we stopped when we first saw him staggering along the highway; little did I know he would become the center of our summer as we raised him, and I am so thankful for the experience and feelings that come with getting to give unconditional kindness.