This is the the third clutch of eggs in this nest that have not hatched and was clearly beyond its window of viability. Fluffy continued to diligently sit on those eggs while Buddy repeated his role as a dedicated provider.
Last year this cute couple of Barn Owls successfully fostered 2 owlets Greg and Nancy.
With the help of a local rehabber, Fluffy's 5 eggs were removed and two more barn owlets were placed in the box and given the chance to live a free wild barn owl life.
After waiting for dark and for Fluffy to leave the box, the eggs were removed and the box was cleaned, new bedding placed inside, then the two owlets were placed inside the nest box. Fluffy flew back and while sitting there high in the doorway, did a barn owl double take. There on the floor of her nest box were two fuzzy owlets where her eggs had been! After a brief survey of the scene below, Fluffy jumped down to her newly adopted brood and immediately began preening them (appearing to love on them) with great enthusiasm!!
The babies appeared to be in adopted-momma heaven.
We at "Adventures With Mel& Syd" wish only the best for them Robert and Rudy!! Buddy and Fluffy's newest adoptees!
Go take a look and give then your best.
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/the-buddy-and-fluffy-barn-owl-show