Rich, I generally use continuous focus for attempts at "in flight" shots.  As for manual focus, when a bird is among lots of contrasty branches, etc., manual is more accurate for me and often quicker considering dof.  Accurate focus depends on me having the viewfinder diopter adjusted for my eyes and being sure my eye is the same place on the viewer for every shot..with trifocal specs that is a must, in my case.

Danny, I do hopt you will come up with an article.  You are well qualified to do that.       Tom.