I grew up seeing these birds around in my native New Zealand. They were introduced there in the 1860's and replaced the native varieties which had died out through hunting pressure and quite probably through introduced parasites.
I like the pose on the rock and the environment . The bird itself looks a bit scruffy around the head and neck - Is that from parasites or changing feathers/ moulting?
On my screen, the breast and head feathers are looking a little over sharpened.
Interesting image - reminds me of home! Thanks for sharing!
Nice habitat here! I like the rock, perfect head angle, grasses (especially the oof ones at left). Yes, a bit scruffy-looking, it will surely soon molt into pristine plumage :-) If anything, I'd look into adding some warmth to the white balance, maybe selectively on the subject if it's too much for the BG.
Not a chick anymore. I like it but for the blocked feet and tail. Very sharp.
with love, a
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