What happened
The aircraft was positioned on final approach for a planned water landing when a collision with a bird occurred. According to the pilot's account, the impact took place at approximately 50 feet above ground level. The pilot had initially maintained a higher altitude during the approach in an effort to avoid objects visible in the water below.
A witness observed a dark object, identified as likely being a cormorant due to several birds seen in the area before and after the incident. This witness noted that the object floated away from the wreckage following the accident. Upon regaining consciousness, the pilot found himself submerged in the water. He managed to free himself and escape through the door of the aircraft, which had become submerged and inverted.
The collision resulted in a large hole in the windscreen. The pilot sustained cuts to his face caused by flying glass and the forceful impact of his glasses into his eyebrows. A man on shore, having heard the crash, came to the pilot's aid and provided transportation to land via boat.