The over-all composition is very attractive. Like the tree limbs, though the one cutting through the head might be removed. The BG is very nice. The bird is in a good pose. ;-)
I like the pose too and the colour and lighting. The pine perch adds to the image but I might crop the lower branches and give more space at the top if possible. The focus point seems to be a little off the bird's head.
Now to species Terry- I was obviously not there and have only this image to go by but I think your first instinct was probably correct. The bill does not look crossed enough for a crossbill and the tone of red in the image is less orangey than I would expect a Red Crossbill to be. Note also the flank and lower belly stripping which is a House Finch field mark. Anyway, still not convinced either way so others are encouraged to weigh in. You may want to post across to the Avian ID, Behaviour and Nomenclature where we routinely deal with ID issues.
Thanks for the ID help, John and Doug. The bill is definitely crossed, and we do ocassionally get them, but you are probably right. I did go back and review previous crossbill shots I have taken - I am inclinded to think you are right, but as suggested, I have now posted this image in Avian ID.
Last edited by Terry Olmsted; 10-20-2008 at 12:43 PM.
Would you believe a House Finch?
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