Black-shouldered kite - Nictitating Membrane

[Abhishek Jamalabad]

Posting this to show the nictitating membrane of the kite. The same one, shot near Uran.
The nictitating membrane is a translucent third eyelid present in some animals that can be drawn across the eye for protection and to moisten the eye while also keeping visibility. Nictitating membranes are found in birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, but are less common in mammals. Raptors use the nictitating membrane during dives to protect the eye, and also blink the membrane repeatedly to keep the eye clear of dust.
(In the image the kite has the nictitating membrane completely closed.)

Camera Model Name Canon PowerShot SX10 IS
Shooting Mode Aperture-Priority AE
Tv (Shutter Speed) 1/500
Av (Aperture Value) 5.7
Exposure Compensation -1/3
ISO Speed 100

Thanks, comments and critiques welcome...

[Bibhav Behera]

Good that you posted this pic. A lot of people just discard pics with the nictitating membrane as the eye is not visible clearly. This shows the behaviour. Nicely done.

[Sabyasachi Patra]

Abhishek,
Thanks for the information. A lot of times, photographers with no idea about biology, clone the nictitating membrane even though the situation demands that the membrane should be there. I like the composition.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi