Chris,
I like the idea a lot, but there are is a (minor) detail that is also there.
I do like the general idea, the rich detail in the feathers contrasted with the hard features of the plant next to it.
The stripey features in the OOF area distract me a little. I do understand that this is fairly difficult to avoid with grass, but I feel that if the background would be a bit softer, this could add to the entire impression.
This is just how I see it - I am sure that there are other views
Thanks for showing - this could spawn a lot of ideas to explore.
Best regards,
Michael