fantastic shot, Danny.
Some minor ideas...You could try to work on the black on the back a bit and get rid of the strong halo. If it's ok for you, you could also consider to get rid of the second thistle...it somehow takes away my eyes from the bird
Great perch, details, eye contact and BG. I don't mind the second thistle (?) but would give it more room at the bottom in order not to clip the thistle. I agree on halo and lightening the dark parts of the plumage.
I like the 2nd thistle and love the image. Agree with getting the whole perch thistle and even I can see the halo which is likely frm over-sharpening.
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apart from all the comment and critiques written above i would have enhanced the midtone from 1.00 to 1.25 in Level's and that gives more depth to the brid's dont know what experts would say on this.
lets wait for some moderator and seniors to put some light on this one.