Preferred Nikon Focus Method for small fast moving objects

[Singletracklovr]

I am trying to learn how to shoot small fast moving objects like birds in flight.

What would be the preferred autofocus scheme to get the camera to focus the fastest? I've tried reading through the nikon manual and it's pretty vague in this area. I've also watched the focusing videos in the nikon digitutor. They use moving bikes in both examples and I guess I'm just not smart enough to see the difference.

An example of my issue:
camera settings:
dynamic area
continuous servo
Focus lock lever- unlocked position
EXIF data is attached to the photo


Thank you in advance for any suggestion you could offer.