Two Approaches to long bird shots

[dem]

Thank you, Trev. I do not think that the difference in crop explains why image #1 is better than the other 3 shots with the SX60HS, cos there is hardly any difference... But wait, look at the EXIF data:

#1 162.5 mm, ISO 100, 1/250 s, f/8
#2 247 mm, ISO 160, 1/320 s, f/8
#3 247 mm, ISO 160, 1/250 s, f/8
#4 247 mm, ISO 160, 1/250 s, f/8

#1 was shot at a lower ISO and a shorter focal length.

I found this shot of a heron I took with a bridge camera a couple of years ago (Fujifilm X-S1, 624 mm eq, ISO 320, 1/250 s, f/6.4):

[Tronhard]

I am glad you have resolved your question Dem.

SO... value for money, especially if someone is not experienced or rich, which configuration would recommend to them?

[Dave Humphries]

One bit of advice for bridge camera shooters (and P&S) is to avoid blowing highlights, the quickest way to lose fine detail is to over expose - those little photocells very easily overflow in to the surrounding ones.

I know that risks losing shadow detail, due to same tiny pixel's reduced dynamic range compared to larger sensor cameras, but I found it was worth it.

[Tronhard]

I usually under-expose by 1/3 a stop under that same principle.