MN Shutterbug Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 I refilled the suet feeder at the state park today, and then stood behind a tree and waited. It took about 15 minutes for 3 chickadees, 2 nuthatches and this downy to show up. When I saw this first shot on my PC, I thought there was something wrong with his eye. Then I looked at the next shot and it looks normal. I assume it's some kind of protective membrane so he doesn't poke his eye out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nymph Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 That is the nictitating membrane. It is like a third eyelid they have for protection. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MN Shutterbug Posted February 11, 2009 Author Share Posted February 11, 2009 Ah, yes. I remember last year posting a Baltimore Oriole with the same eye. I had forgot what it was called. However, it brings up another question. What does he need to protect it from? There weren't any bugs out today. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steve Foss Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 Flying wood chips, plus it stabilizes the eye in the socket. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MN Shutterbug Posted February 11, 2009 Author Share Posted February 11, 2009 I can buy that. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dbl Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 Its a cool shot X! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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