A tiny long-tailed weasel that arrived with her eyes still closed is back in the wild after 70 days in care at San Diego Humane Society.
The young weasel was found alone on a trail in Riverside County on March 20, 2026. San Diego Humane Society said she is the youngest long-tailed weasel admitted to the organisation’s care.
When she arrived at the Bahde Wildlife Center, she was in critical condition and needed around-the-clock specialised care and feeding. She also received daily medication for ringworm, while caregivers worked not to habituate her to humans.
After 10 days of intensive monitoring, her eyes opened.
San Diego Humane Society then transferred her to its Ramona Wildlife Centre to help her stay wild. There, she was housed in a small-mammal habitat designed to help her develop the skills needed to survive on her own.
After 70 days in care, the Project Wildlife team decided she was strong enough to be released. Two days later, on May 31, 2026, she was returned to the wild in the Ramona area.
Alexis Wohl, DVM, Wildlife Veterinary Manager at San Diego Humane Society, said: “Caring for a mammal this young and this rare requires precision and expertise.
“Because we so rarely see this species, every milestone – from the first time she successfully ate on her own to opening her eyes – is a major victory for our team and local biodiversity.”
Long-tailed weasels are predators that control rodent and insect populations. San Diego Humane Society said they are found throughout North America but are hard to spot because of their speed and nocturnal habits.
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