Purple Roller

Interesting looking fellow. If you have more room at the bottom, I would add it even if the tail is not visible. Overall, it appears a bit dark on my monitor. A bit of adjustment would improve this one.

Ken, the detail shows well in the larger view. I think this is a case where the sky needs to be darkened and the Roller lightened slightly to change the relative contrast levels. If you have Viveza, that should be fairly straightforward. The reddish brown of the nape seems to extend up over the eye, which may be where the "crowned" comes in. The colors are interesting even under this lighting. They must be special when you get nice light. Definitely worth a little more work.

Nice shot and an attractive bird. I don'y mind about the tail. Looks like you were somewhat short changed on the light here. I bet nice early or late sunlight would really make those multi-colored feathers shine with iridescence.Hopefully you will catch one in good light next time.

Regardless the name, a beauty ! The larger version shows high quality ! , Hans

Excellent detail and pose, Ken. I don't mind the missing tail tip.

Wonderful bird and nicely sharp. Would selective brightening of the bird come closer to what the species looks like in the field? Without knowing the species, I can't say of the missing tail tip is a problem. Some rollers tails are spectacular; others, not so much. Great shot either way.

Thanks everybody for your comments, light was generally dull in Ruaha.
Jim, This is one of the "short tailed"rollers