Here's why:
* Strong maternal instincts: Feral cats are driven by instinct to protect and care for their young. They are extremely sensitive to their kittens' needs and will do everything in their power to ensure their safety.
* Scent: Cats have a highly developed sense of smell. While they may not be able to recognize a human by sight, they will likely recognize their kittens by scent.
* Sounds: Feral cats will also be able to hear their kittens' meows and cries. This is a powerful signal that will bring them back.
However, there are some caveats:
* The mother's level of fear: If the mother is extremely skittish and fearful, she might be hesitant to return if she senses danger.
* The presence of humans: If she perceives humans as a threat, she might be more cautious about returning.
* Time: The longer you wait, the less likely she is to come back. She might assume the kittens have been moved or lost.
What to do if you find feral kittens:
* Observe from a distance: First, see if the mother is around. If you don't see her, wait and observe for a while to see if she returns.
* Call animal control or a local rescue: They have experience dealing with feral cats and can advise you on how to proceed.
* Do not attempt to handle the kittens: This could scare the mother away and make it less likely she will return.
* Keep pets away: Other animals, especially dogs, could harm the kittens.
Remember, the best thing you can do is to leave the kittens alone and contact a professional for help. This will ensure the kittens are safe and will give the mother the best chance of returning to her babies.