Colin needs lens opinions

[colpet]

I'm new to the forum and would like some advice. I recently bought a Canon Rebel Xs and would like to buy a telephoto zoom lens before I head to the lake. At the lake I'll be taking pictures of everything from loons and song birds to blueberries and wildflowers. There is a used Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM for sale up here in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. This lens new is about $750 Canadian. The used ones is advertised at $575 but the seller would probably let it go for about $500 including hood and filter. Sounds like a good deal to me. The alternative is the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS which is on sale new at $360 but with taxes and filter would be over $400. Both lenses get great reviews but the 70-300 seems to get a better rating. I'm slightly anxious about buying used but I can meet the guy tomorrow throw it on my camera and try it out. Let me know what you think.

 

[colpet]

I went and bought the 70-300. It seems great. But I'd still welcome your opinions.