Feral kittens socializing update

The four ferals are now entirely out of the cages.  They seemed so stressed in there, and two never left the cat box by choice.  We're removing the cages altogether tomorrow, but they spent the whole day on the porch and seem so much happier and better adjusted.

For the first time, I got the kittens to play with a toy.  We have a squeaky mouse toy on a string, and Castor - our most promising kitten - had a ball with it.  The other kittens watched carefully, and while Leonidas made a dash in its direction, they all passed on play except brave Castor.  

Castor LOVES to be petted.  He begs for it, and if I'm petting Leo near him, he'll squirm over on his back and rub his head on my arm.  He's the only on who purrs so far, and he'll be a little lap lovey given time.

Tonight, I was able to rub all of the kittens behind the ears and along the jaw.  Each one closed his eyes and leaned in to get deeper scritches.  It was wonderful.

They're all eating, they're all using the litter boxes, and they're all looking comfortable and content much of the time.  Oedipus (Eddy for short) is the most wary, but he's showing signs of interest in interaction.  

Theoretically, I could adopt out Castor tomorrow, he's so happy to be with people.  But I'm going to wait until all the brothers are closer to ready before I let him go.  He's leading the others to be braver and more confident.  

I'm really enjoying this, by the way...

Sorry I haven't replied.  We were out of town for the holiday.  It sounds like you've really come a long way with them.  Letting them out and about some is a good idea; they seem ready for it.

I think you are wise to keep Castor for a bit.  He'll be a good example for the rest of them.