I use my 1D2 if I'm after something which needs really fast autofocus but for little birds sat still I prefer the 40D as I find the smaller sensor and higher mega pixel count gives me better results for cropping.

I'm on the point of upgrading (possibly both)

What issues are you having with your 1D4 ? I only ask as that's what I'm considering.

Thanks Laura. I don't think Siskins are that common where you are anyway are they ?

Sorry to hear you're not getting any birds at all though.

Not very common, I've seen them a few times, and they'd not be seen as rarities, but certainly, they're a nice surprise, rather than an expected one! We get House Sparrows in the many hundreds... Hooded Crows, Starlings.... and not a whole lot else anymore, and none of those will come to the feeders :/ I'm at a loss as to what to do next to try and bring them back, we've tried everything! I've hardly done any 'birds on a stick' type photography in 2 years!

xx