i don't use a tripod very often but if you use a 500mm lens for a certain distance it does help to get a sharp image :)
Mr Sparrow was sitting on the fence ion the garden while i was playing with the Sigma 150-500mm lens , you do want to use remote trigger and tripod if you zoom in that strong
Sony A700 + Sigma 150-500mm 1/500 sec. f/5,6 500 mm iso 250
Sony A700 + Sigma 150-500mm 1/500 sec. f/5,6 500 mm iso250
Sony A700 + Sigma 150-500mm 1/500 sec. f/5,6 500 mm iso 400
Sony A700 + Sigma 150-500mm 1/500 sec. f/5,6 500 mm iso 320
Sony A700 + Sigma 150-500mm 1/500 sec. f/5,6 500 mm iso 400
Sony A700 + Sigma 150-500mm 1/500 sec. f/5,6 500 mm iso 250