Nikon Action Shots Zoom Lens?

Currently I shoot a Nikon D40 camera with the stock lens (18-55mm). However, most of my pictures with this camera are action shots of animals. What would be the best zoom lens for this? I don't want a huge zoom lens- but something that will be able to zoom in action about 40-60 yards away (give or take). Also, I can't afford something really expensive- preferably under $300

What you need is the 70-300 mm lens, but it is way over your budget

I would try the 55-200 mm which is well within your $300 range.

As long as you shoot in daylight, you will be fine

You need at least a 300mm. Try Sigma or Tamron but be prepared. In photography, you get exactly what you paid for.

Your only option is the 55-250mm at $249, and then 70-300 at around $380. Both are great.

Here's a Nikon Tele Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2011/09/buying-a-telephoto-lens-nikon/

I might state a big wild cat. They may be able adjust up to a whole lot of|significant} climates, they may be able find, kill, climb, as well as run. They may be able furthermore swim, though you understand cats as well as H2O! Lol I might state like a lion, puma, cougar, cheetah, leopard, tiger, or perhaps alternative kind of|kind of} big wild cat.

Go with Nikon 55-300mm lens is very light weight and handles easily. Even in combination with the camera body you hardly know it's around your neck. Amazon had a great deal on this lens and I opted for it over the 55-200 lens (better reviews). The light weight does make the lens feel "cheap" but it doesn't perform "cheap". I took over 1500 shots using this lens and the results where everything I hoped for. Because of the slow lens speed there are times it wouldn't autofocus. I just turned the autofocus off and manually focused the lens. The pictures came out just great. I think the extra 100 mm is worth the money.