I am in the market for a zoom lens for my D40. Being new to the whole photography thing, and not having thousands of dollars to waste, I wonder if I may trouble you guys for recommendations. The only lens that I have now is the 18-55 that came with it, am I really enjoy shooting nature.

Wide or telephoto?

telephoto

You may want to consider Canon's EF 400mm f/5.6L ~ $1100-1200. I have not tried this lens myself ( yet ) but have read many positive reviews. Sharpness, quick autofocus, and light weight seem to be this lens' strong points.

On the downside, the f/5.6 thing. A bit slow for shaded and overcast shoots, so you may need to bump your ISO up to 800 in some cases.

Like I said, I've never used this lens but may get one before Canon slaps on image stabilization and increases the price.

Good luck!

unfourtunatly , the d40 can only utilize autofocus on the lenses that have there own AF motor (because it has no af motor built in) , in other words, you have a limited amount of lenses to purchase if you want the AF feature.
you need...
nikon SWM
Sigma HSM
etc etc.
and that increases price ........

i would go for the 50-150 2.8 sigma hsm used.

HI,

I'm working with the duo kit on the d40x, so the 18-55 and the 55-200vr, i really like the 55-200vr lens, its not the fastest lens and its not very light strong but i think the quality is very good for the money, just check my blog for examples. The vr helps a lot, would not go for the 55-200 without the vr.

I'm not wanting another tele lens so thats a good sign...

Greetings Jan

i just bought the VR 18-200mm, it's a beast!