Incident Overview
During climb out at approximately 1,300 feet, the pilot of an Ercoupe 415-C observed wood pieces and feathers entering the cockpit through the open canopy. An extreme vibration ensued throughout the airplane. The pilot subsequently shut down the engine and executed an emergency landing in a pasture.
Landing and Post-Event Damage
After touchdown, the airplane impacted a shallow ditch that was obscured by tall grass. The impact resulted in the collapse of the nose gear, aft bending of the right wing spar, and buckling of the firewall. The aircraft was equipped with a two-blade Sensenich wooden propeller. Following the accident, the pilot reported that one blade had been splintered.
Pilot Report and Determination
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions prior to the event. The occurrence was determined to be a bird strike.