flash or not to flash?

[Raymond J Barlow]

I did both with many of my shots at the zoo in Manila, but I am not sure what is best.. I am thinking I should try various amounts of flash, in several shots... with the D70, there are many options. Just wondering if any nature photographers might have an opinion to share with me, would really appreciate the help!!

This shot had such a bright background, I tried it with a flash.

Also, I have a laptop, and a tower pc here.. the laptop shows the colors well, and crisp lines, but the Samsung lcd monitor on my pc shows the colors pushed into the green too much, and softer lines., Is there a good way to set up a monitor?

 

[DocFrankenstein]

Yeah, the colors don't work. The subject is not separated from the background.

 

[mentos_007]

well I like the colours... but I don't like the crop... I think it is too centered and it looks af if the bird couldn't breath.. I prefer to leave more space on the left, but it's only my opinion