One of the most exciting things that has ever happened to me since I started photography just 3 years ago was finding this Red-tail hawk that allowed me to approach to within 8 feet , I spent about 20 minutes with him and every time he turned his head or moved a new image was created . Canon 20D w/200 F/2.8L, 1/1000 sec @ F/8.0 , ISO 400 , -1/3 EC
Wayne
What an incredible opportunity. Given the white wash on the perch I'd say that he ....or other birds frequent it. The fence post with the vine almost looks as if you decorated the perch just for this image. The BG is certainly good as is the exposure and detail. Did you clone something out in the lower left side? I might go one more slight round of sharpening on the head. The pose is ok for this one.....concentrating on a meal.....but I would like to see one with an over the shoulder look. With the time you had with him, I'll bet you have one of those poses.
These are special times when a beautiful bird like this one allows us to observe him from a close distance . Beautiful detail in this image and the perch is extra special with the leaves. I would like to see more of a head turn towards the camera and I agree another round of USM on the head woulld be helpful. Beautiful capture and thanks for sharing Wayne.
Nice bird and pose, Wayne. It must have been great getting that close. Others have already mentioned the head turn and what appears to be a partial cloning out of something in the lower left.