On that note, what was that about getting up early for better bird images? Is that helpfull in general or did it only refer to some specific bird?
It has been told to me that a lot of birds will start hunting for food at sunrise. If they get enough food, they may not continue to hunt. And usually there is better lighting at sunset, as opposed to direct, harsh overhead light.
Keep up the good work Joules, your equipment can still capture good stuff. Now a days I scarcely even take the time to try and capture birds more than 100 meters away. Its so hard for cameras to focus that far, even with the best lens. Thats why it takes time and skill, you have to try to be as close to the birds as you can. Sometimes that means sitting and waiting a long time (which I don't often do lol).