I think you are off to a good start for editing this image. There are still many spots that need to be eliminated as well as a hint of the tree behind the bird. I think the coloration of the bird in your original image is stronger than your edited image. In the original we see more defining of the birds body, bottom wings and tail. Maybe just using a cloning tool to darken areas of the background would have been better than darkening the overall image.   Posted: 11/16/2019 14:27:54

Terry,
Very good suggestions if I did not want to qualify for Nature category that prohibits removing objects. You make me consider submitting in Open category. But then I like the low-key mysterious feel with a hint of unidentified objects. There is no accounting for taste.   Posted: 11/16/2019 18:16:01

What an interesting perspective! Did the egret run into you? Your adjustments worked well at making the egret pop. I especially like the detail in the feathers on the underside of the wing. I would suggest turning the entire background black, but given this is a nature shot, I understand the constraints. Well done!   Posted: 11/17/2019 13:51:35

You captured a flying bird in an interesting position, with some sharp detail, but overall I do not find it sharp and wish there were more details in the bird's face.   Posted: 11/21/2019 18:30:26