one more tip, - if you are on location take a rug and shoot lying down - you have heard the expression birds eye view, well that doent always mean from the sky. get to the eye level of the bird/animal and you will see them from a different perspective. Also it will be easier to avoid shake as you can support the lens by leaning the end of it on your camera bag and then you will have more movement ability with your camera allowing you to re compose quicker.
- a tough project but very rewarding.