Two Approaches to long bird shots

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):

http://i68.tinypic.com/2zs7fjb.jpg

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?

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.

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