telephoto DSLR camera lens recommendations

[The Quadfather]

I was hoping somebody on here might be into photography, and be able to recommend or guide me in a purchase of a decent telephoto lens.
I recently purchased a Canon 70D, DSLR. I am looking for a lens that would be used for pulling in distant wildlife, birds at a distance, elk, etc. Also one that does well with low light conditions when needed.
Although the camera is a Canon, of course there companies that make lenses for pairing up with Canon, etc. Some of these include, Tamron, Tokina, Sigma??
Any thoughts or experience is appreciated. Of course I am on my way to Kenmore Camera in a moment, but I'd like to hear from someone who isn't motivated to push a certain product for commission.

[The Quadfather]

OK, well after an hour in the camera store, I'm settling in on the Canon 70-200mm F4 lens, with a 1.4 t
eleconverter that takes out the focal range to I think 500mm.
I would still entertain any thoughts.

[riverbound]

Congratulations on the new camera. I shoot canon and can not say enough about 70-200 2.8 IS. It's a pricey lens, but worth every penny if you use it. The IS is a life saver in low light conditions the the bokeh on the 2.8 is gorgeous. I actually was considering selling my mki version since I recently upgraded to the mkii and might even have a converter I could throw in. PM me if you're interested. Either way, sounds like you're on the right track. Look forward to seeing the pics you capture with the camera!

[natetreat]

I think that you'll do well with the teleconvertor. Telephoto lenses in th 400-500 mm range are expensive!

[bigskyx]

You're not going to shoot much in low light with an f4 lens and the teleconverter will make it even more difficult. Like riverbound said the f2.8 lenses are expensive so it depends a lot upon the depth of your wallet. Generally speaking you can get more lens for the money with the off brands. I've owned Sigma & Tamron, Tokina also gets good reviews.

Have a look here.
http://www.kenrockwell.com/canon/lenses/index.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/reviews.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I have the Sigma 135-400 and have taken some great shots with it over the years.
http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/show ... roduct=181" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;