I too love the eye! I also like the DOF and low angle. The OOF FG adds a feel of framing to the image. The partially covered tail doesn't bother me. I think it adds to the emphasis to the wonderful eye.
Killer image, Adams. These birds are so skiddish. You did getting this close and capturing it in such gorgeous light. The details and colors are great and there is just enough hint of vegetation to render it pleasing to the eye.
Adams, you're getting better all the time. Very well done. You've created an intimate image (by getting down to your subject's level) with excellent light (your axis to the sun was right on). All the tech stuff looks good and I like the composition. Keep it up!