This was captured on Toronto's waterfront. My style up to this point usually includes an element of extreme contrast which is apparent in this photo.
I decided that it was unnecessary to include any more detail from the bird in the photo. I felt it took away from the simplicity.
I understand what your trying to go for by keeping the contrast so high. The only issue I can see is that because there is detail on the light part it is throwing the image out of balance. My eye is continually drawn to the darkest part of the image.