Male chaffinch-Fringilla coelebs. (Enlarge).

Beautiful capture of this nicely dressed little fellow and you just had enough light to outline it. 

The thumb nail just doesn't do this justice!  Once seen large the viewer can appreciate the back lighting and detail in the shadows. But what I really like about this shot is X shape of the branches with the illuminated lichen in the centre of the cross.

Excellent! 

Best Regards 

Alf 

Sigh, I don't think I will ever have Alf's ability to turn a phrase... so, I'll just say, "What Alf said".  :-)  Great shot... Mike

I agree with ALF, you captured the lighting perfect as it highlights the perimeter of our friend nicely. Great eye my friend.

The rim (back lighting) is indeed what sets this apart from the average bird post.  A tad more shadow detail in the front of the bird, an easy PS fix if you agree, would be desired by tired old eyes. Plus, 'what Alf said'.  :-)  Nice result for your efforts in any case.  Best, LM.

Sincere thanks to all of you and might I say that your sense of humor is superb...-:).

Len thank you!. Your observation is helpful. Have a look at the alternative version.

Warm regards to all.

Works for me. Exactly what I meant.  Thanks for going the extra mile.  Best, Len.

Hi Dimitris,

  Beautiful image with wonderful color & magical lighting.  Take care, Patsy

A nice capture, a very well composed image.

I prefer the modified (lit) version --- and yes, very nicely composed compliments -koushik