Quote: I can count 6 shades of blue because the traisition between each is very obvious and is also a very blocky line.
Nope - I do not see it. My monitor is set for 1280X960. If I reset it at a lower setting I get kind of a wonky, banded picture. I downloaded the picture and lightened the sky in photoshop and still I do not see any distinct colour bands. The sky is a smooth gradient.
However, I do see several spots that look like burnt pixels and at least one dust spot.
I would suggest you try viewing this image on another monitor to see if this phenomenon persists.
(And Stu - I hope the old bush guide didn't soak you too much for the informed birder's hike if he can't tell a falcon from a vulture.
Hopefully he was entertaining in other aspects.
)