Hi Dale,

I've never used a monopod for wildlife work. I can see why it would work
for Birds in flight and also Sports.

I have a Benbo tripod that sets up very fast on any terrain and also in the water.
I then use the Slik pistol grip for lenses up to my 50-300 Nikkor. It allows me to get a quick shot and change direction and composition much faster that a conventional tripod.

I used to use the Gitzo Ball head, but trying to set the position with the three knobs was always difficult. That's why I switched to the pistol grip. For larger lenses, the pistol grip probably won't be sturdy enough though.

I have two sizes of the Benbo and I use the Trek II for hiking. I took it into the rainforest in Tobago last year and had good luck with it. I don't usually extend the center post though and try to keep it close to the ground for support.

If you're not familiar with the Benbo, I can post a picture of it and describe how I use it etc.

just my thoughts,

Dale