Couldn't resist a few more of the Fieldfare - a lovely bird and one of the best Thrushes. Almost impossible to get close to normally, so this was a real treat for me. If you ever find an obliging one, get to work on it immediately as these opportunities are highly unlikely to occur! As usual I was working with Canon's superb 800mm f5.6 lens, mounted on a tripod and with a gimbal head. Prior to this year I probably took most of my photos either handheld, or using a monopod. I've waxed lyrical about the benefits of a monopod many times, and the portability and flexibility is hard to beat. Nonetheless, this year I've used a tripod far more often - mostly as a function of the low winter light levels. I have no idea if the tripod explains it, or whether I'm just thinking much more carefully about the shot, but I feel that my photos have improved this year. Just a coincidence? I'm not sure, but I'm thinking that it probably isn't and so plan to use my tripod as often as I can. I do currently have an issue with the Wimberley though - it wobbles when not completely locked down, so I can't pan very easily. The company are being very helpful though, so I'm very hopeful of getting full use of it back soon.