American Goldfinch 2 (?)

Just beautiful, for all of the aforementioned reasons.  That background is quite a spectacular backdrop!  And the lens offered you a perfect bokeh!  I've actually heard that you can stand still for awhile around a bird feeder until the birds aren't spooked any more.  Sounds like it worked for you!  I'll have to try that sometime.  Oh....I agree about the branch in the lower left, but it's a great shot either way!  

Good to have your informed opinion, always!  Thanks for that.  This could well turn out to be my personal favourite of 2014.  I've made an 8x10 of it for my album.  No regrets.  I'd likely need a blind to get any closer.  Thinking about it.  Best, LM.

Worth waiting around for, and what a shot! The surprising thing is that the colour of the birds plumage actually matches the backdrop with the warmer colours on top and gradually becoming cooler.   I haven't read all the previous comments so if I'm repeating anything please forgive me!  The subtle thin black frame finishes it off nicely. 

Compliments & Best Regards 

Alf 

That the colours complimented each other was luck.  This was taken in the autumn just after the first snowfall which acted as a large reflector.  The little critter's desire for a free meal just happened to trump it's fear of me standing close by.  Good for both of us. :-)  Patience is a virtue and an important element in shots like this.  Thanks for your always welcome observations.  Best, LM.