This, as always, has been so hard - so many great bird shots. I have decided on shots which are either different, ones I feel were not easily captured or I just plain liked . Starting with honourable mentions, in alphabetical order:
aldeca I like how this bird's wings show motion but the body is in focus outlined nicely by the underside of the wing.
alain_lestrade. This one, although not very clear, captures one's adventureous imagination.
bibigarf. This is perfectly timed with the bird looking so elegant against a flattering background:
grompem. An amazing sight - makes one think of Hitchcock's "The Birds" - the B&W treatment and leaden sky does give it a dark mood (IMHO)
And, in 3rd place:
luxun54. Love this - looks like the two are having a delicate conversation.
2nd place:
amoxtli. What an extraordinary bird - looks like it just stepped out of the beauty salon.
1st place:
ee66. I like how this is photographed against a black background showing it off so beautifully - fabulous shot.