I suggest you do some more research, starting here:
http://photozone.de/
That is a European website that does in-depth lens reviews.
I am not so sure that a mono-pod will be sufficient for such a large focal length.
The serious wildlife photographers use a very sturdy tripod.
When shooting from a tripod, it is usually advisable not to use "image stabilization", so that feature may not be too useful for you.
......
Here is a website by Sue Tranter.
http://www.suesbirdphotos.co.uk/
She specializes in birds and often gives details about lenses and cameras.
She has not been too active for the past few years, but her website is a treasure of wonderful examples.
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I intend to pursue wildlife photography(birds & mammals) seriously as a hobby. And want to make the DSLR Body/Make decision based on the lens best suitable for same:
I have narrowed down two best(affordable) options of nikon and canon:
Nikon 300mm f/4D IF-ED AF-S Nikkor Lens
Pros according to my research: faster, sharper
Cons according to my research: No image stabilization
Canon EF 300mm f/4L IS USM Telephoto Lens
Pros according to my research: image stabilization
Cons according to my research: not as faster focus compared to nikon, sharpness same
I am not too sure about my research. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Is there any other better lens(other than mentioned above) for wildlife photography for both nikon & Canon in the same budget?
I will be primarily shooting handheld or with a monopod alongwith a 1.4 X tele convertor in either cases. I am very confused between the two, please suggest which one to choose between the two lenses overall?
Also, according to snap sort Nokia D5100 has 20% better image quality than Canon EOS 60D, is it true? According to you, is nikon D90 better than Canon 60D overall?
You help in this regard is highly appreciated.

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