There's a very interesting thread going about Bgs and it was mentioned that Florida has clean backgrounds. Although we sometimes do and birds are quite easy to approach, it isn't always the case;
I love doing habitats and always look for way to include some in my images. Sometimes the BG is harmonious and non-intrusive and sometimes it's cluttered and more difficult to work with. I find using Focal Point, a PS plugin, helps me with the latter. I know this one will not be to everyone's taste, but that's what makes photography and art in general interesting, different strokes :)
Beautiful image Fabs-and I read that thread started by Ed Vatza,it was very interesting. I like your inclusion of habitat and the way you dealt with it-It has a very artistic feel to it that goes along with the image nicely.