Mother Cat and two kittens

Question
Hi. About 10-12 weeks ago, a Mother cat showed up at our house, which could be considered in semi-country. We have woods around our house, but there are subdivisions within a 1-mile radius. Anyway, back to the problem - Mamma cat brings her 3 kittens here. They were very small, but they're eyes were open, etc. We feed her, and the kittens, and they do very well living in the barn, usually sleeping in the same place everynight.  The Mamma cat acts as though she has never been around humans, or has, and thus the reason for her attitude. She will not let you pet her and of course, the kittens follow her lead. We were making progress though, as she started rubbing against my leg when I would bring her and the kittens their wet food. All was well, until yesterday morning. When I went out to feed them, all were gone, but one of the kittens. I have walked the property, calling out to them, of course with no response. I read the other posts about fresh water, etc. and do that all the time, anyway. The food never lasts long outside due to a few bumming coons we've semi-adopted. The Mamma cat has never taken them off before, and I am worried for them.  The one left here is very verbal, and looks around and cries, or meows pitifully. The 3 kittens have been together from the very beginning, and I do worry for the one left, as well as the Mamma and 2 kittens. Do you have any words of wisdom for me? Is there anything I can do for the little one who is here to help him feel better? My husband thinks Mamma may be taking the kittens out to teach them to hunt on their own, do they generally do that, especially if she is a "wild-cat"? I do appreciate any shreds of hope you can give me. I have heard cats have an excellent sense of home and direction. Is that true?   Thanks Norman, any help is greatly needed and appreciated.

Answer
Deb,

I wish I had words of wisdom for you.  At 10-12 weeks of age, the kittens should be weaned and mama does teach them to hunt.  

You can continue what you were doing and see if she and or any of the other kittens return.  It is a dangerous world for cats out of doors and anything could have happened.

Cats do tend to stay fairly close to their home territory, but they are very good at hiding. She could be right under your nose, and you would never see her.

Best regards... Norm.