Incident Overview
A pilot reported an accident that occurred while conducting deer capture operations. During a low-altitude tail-low flare maneuver, the helicopter's tail rotor blades struck a rock outcropping as the aircraft maneuvered around a knoll. The impact caused the helicopter to rotate 270 degrees to the right before contacting the ground and rolling over onto its left side.
Post-Impact Conditions
There was no post-crash fire. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the helicopter prior to or during the flight, indicating that the accident was not due to a mechanical failure.
Operational Context
The flight was part of deer capture operations, which often involve low-altitude maneuvering. The specific maneuver being performed was a tail-low flare, likely intended to position the helicopter for capture procedures. The terrain feature involved was a knoll with a rock outcropping.
Sequence of Events
While maneuvering around the knoll, the tail rotor struck the rock outcropping. This asymmetric contact imparted a rotational force, resulting in a 270-degree right turn. The helicopter subsequently struck the ground and rolled onto its left side.
Pilot Report
The pilot was the sole source of information for this account. No additional occupants or ground personnel are mentioned in the report. The pilot confirmed that the helicopter experienced no mechanical issues before or during the flight.