Went to a local park to take some small bird pictures when this large shadow flew over me. It then landed about 20-30' away, and stayed there for a bit. Whenever it moved, it allowed me to get really close again for more pictures. Shot with the D3, 300 2.8 AF-S, and TC20E II TC on a monopod.
Nice shots of a beautiful bird. You had some harsh lighting but to capture one of these I would take any light. # 3 is a great closeup, just a little hot on the breast. Congrats on the opportunity. I really like the last one too. The background is crazy and nice.