Linda, I prefer #2. Better range of tones, sweeter grays, minimal vignetting. I have no problem with the composition; the limp limbs pull the eye into the photo from the bottom left and right; the pod on the left stem anchors the eye there and subtly mirrors and balances the bird; the stem on the right keeps the eye in the frame and prevents it from wandering out of the frame, which it would do without that border. Very clever ricocheting back and forth between the stalks; pleasant tight framing with rich texture in the pod particularly. Well done. Matt