On researching this bird I discovered that it has been reclassified as a reedling instead of a tit. The thinking now is that it may be part of the Lark family.
Canon 1D4. Canon 100-400 L Mk2. Canon 1.4x Mk2 HH
1/1250 @ f 8 ISO 320. ACR and PS6. Cropped from the horizontal and a bit off the top.
That's much better IMHO David, but it looks a bit thin, likewise the blacks. Perhaps even some more sharpening too?
You should look at some of Ed's (Edwin Kats) images, someone both Keith Mitchell and I know, just Google, you may get some inspiration too, keep them coming.
This is lovely David.This bird is high on my bucket list.
I like the vertical comp and your repost re: the reedling looks much better. I would back off on the vegetation though- perhaps go back and select the bird only with your adjustments.
I really like the direct gaze and excellent DOF. The diagonal line created by the grass really adds a lot to the image,
Gail