As you may know, I enjoy photographing birds. They are fascinating, challenging to capture, and stunning when illuminated by the sun (light). Here are four recent, winter, favorites (American Goldfinch, House Finch, Cardinal, and Chickadee). Notice, no green in the backgrounds, but green, bright green, is starting to appear everywhere you look.
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Stephen L Tabone Nature Photography 
You know I always love your photos but especially these close-ups of the birds. It’s amazing how sharp and detailed these images are … I can see their feathers and they make me want to be able to pet them and feel how soft they are. The grey background of winter does a wonderful job of showcasing the birds.
I must admit that my appreciation for birds, as well as most of Mother Nature’s spectacular beauty to include simple little things like the beginning growth of new leaves or a flower bud before blooming (I have spring on my mind), has significantly changed since I have gotten more serious about photography. I now take the time to see such things and to see the light on them. And, when photographed, as the birds are above, I and others can see the detail you mention that adds to their beauty, interest and our appreciation for them.