Camera-shake is a problem that all wildlife filmmakers have to live with. Hours and hours of footage end up in the bin for not being steady.Things are ok when using the standard 20x lens that comes with the XL but problems hit you like a ton of bricks when you add the adaptor and long lenses.
My XL kit is well over 2 feet long once a 170-500 lens plus all the other bits and pieces go on, and it's very heavy.
I've added a link for the Manfrotto 'Gimbal' heads that make life easier.
Using your camera on remote/from a distance is ok if you're looking for static shots, but when your subject moves, which the little critters do often, you'll need to track them and quite often adjust focus and zoom range, especially when tracking birds in flight.
Your remote needs to be one that is a part of, or attached to the pan handle which leaves your left hand free for camera/lens controls.
I don't think there is a guaranteed shake-free system out there, if there is then I've never found it.
A lot of camera technique is required to get steady shots which comes with practice.
Manfrotto 393 Gimbal headxe (1) - Nikonians Product Review