Find a subject, then wait for something to happen on or around it. Yes, this takes time, but the payoff can be worth the wait. I set up the 400mm lens and focused on one of the bird houses that’s outside the Camera Clubhouse. Sooner than later, some birdbrains showed up and when they did, all I needed to do was “push the button.” Pre-focus manually and shoot wide-open. Since you’re on a tripod, nothing else gets in the way. See attached.