If wildlife photography was a class, this bird would be the final exam (at least for me)

Nobody said it was easy [g].

That's a right balanced exposure, very nice. Be proud.

As you're chasing these things and foliage and shadows make it difficult, it might be time to consider a flash for fill light and a Better Beamer to project it.

--
...Bob, NYC
http://www.bobtullis.com
"Well, sometimes the magic works. . . Sometimes, it doesn't." - Little Big Man
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