Estuarine Crocodile.

[Bibhav Behera]

This was shot yesterday in Bhitarkanika National Park in Orissa. It is home to over 1500 Estuarine crocodiles. An amazing mangrove habitat. In winters, it is easier to see them as they come out in the sun to bask and recharge the solar cells on their backs from which they gain energy. This was shot up close. This is a 20% crop from top and right.

Nikon D80 @ 125mm
SS 1/800
F 6.3
ISO 400

[Mrudul Godbole]

Nice environmental image. The light seems a bit harsh. Didn't understand the concept of solar cells which you have mentioned.

[Abhishek Jamalabad]

Lovely image. I feel increasing the light in PP would help.
Bhitarkanika is a lovely place... definitely a place I look forward to visiting again

[Bibhav Behera]

I couldn't avoid the harsh light as that is the best time to see crocs basking
Since crocs are cold blooded animals, they need to regulate their body temperature. And in winters the waters run cold, so they need to come to land to bask and absorb heat. They have specialised cells on their backs which act as heat receptors helping them to gain energy as well as regulate body temperature.

[Mrudul Godbole]

I am aware of their behaviour to bask in the sun, to regulate body temperature. The blood-rich bumpy scales on their backs act as solar panels to absorb heat. Terming that as solar cells, will give a different meaning.

[Bibhav Behera]

Yea, I actually meant it in that sense...
Guess I put it wrongly.

[Praveen Siddannavar]

Nice image Bibhav, i agree with comments made by Abhishek and Mrudul
Solar Cells