I like this one better. The reeds are less bothersome, and in fact, the habitat component is very nice.
There is enough separation in front of the bird to work well.
I would consider burning in the brighter edge of the large diagonal reed on the left side of the frame.
As you get more reach with your new setup, you will not lose as much image quality secondary to the large crops, and that will help.
I would also work on larger birds if you have some readily available, to practice your tech. and skills.
The bigger birds won't be quite so demanding early on because you won't have to have an image which will stand up to such a large crop.
Gulls, geese, whatever you have available.
Or, a back yard setup where the birds will come in close.
i have some gulls shots that i will post in these days.
As i am on summer vacations (High School) i will have lots of time to practice.
In fact im going into a 4 days birding expedition to the high andes next week.
Hopefully i will get some nice shots.