A nice pose, Jim, and the open beak and raised foot add interest. Good sharpness and exposure. I like the OOF, but still recognizable, background. The bird is a bit too centered for my taste, though I wouldn't want to crop the shell in the LRC. Maybe add a little room on the left, if you have it? Well done.
Great low angle, and I like the interest added by the walking motion and open bill. I love the shells littering the ground, I find the one in LRC (and the clump it is sitting on) nicely balances out the comp as is. I may explore lightening the iris just a bit.
Jim, Beautiful details and sharpness. The open bill and raised foot really adds alot to this. I love the shells and BG colors. I agree w/ lightening the eye but realize that is not always possible.