Nice shot, Jostein!
Thanks, Mark.
Personally, I think that there is too much emphasis put on longer lenses, autofocus, etc. The technological solution is only part of the equation - you'll get better shots by getting close simply because you are not shooting through so much air, with the attendant effects of haze, thermal distortion, etc.
Absolutely.
However, there's a right focal length for everything. 300-400mm is pretty good for larger mammals, but I'd prefer to have your setup with a TC for birds. And a 200 macro for insects...:-)
Cheers,
Jostein