Are you right-handed? I think it’s a bit easier to work left to right following the natural arc of my hand as it moves across the page, so maybe it’s also easier to get the angles and proportions right moving from the tip of a beak toward the tail? Somehow when the bird faces to the right it feels more awkward.
It’s challenging to get the right proportions for the head and body, and the correct angles, but I look forward to developing those skills so I can sketch birds more accurately and quickly. I loved exploring the feather groups and how they overlap. Feathers almost look furry. And bird feet are crazy interesting - such long toes. I wouldn’t have noticed the subtle colors and feather groups if I hadn’t try to draw it.