Incident Overview
A student pilot, returning from the practice area on a supervised solo, was on the downwind leg for landing at 1,500 feet when a crow rose from below on the airplane's left side. The pilot heard a loud thud and felt the airplane buffet.
Pilot Actions
After the strike, the student pilot visually checked for other airplanes in the vicinity and inspected the elevator and rudder. By crabbing the airplane using rudder input and adding power, the pilot verified that the airplane remained controllable and could be landed safely.
Aircraft Damage
Three outboard ribs of the left wing and the spar sustained substantial damage. The top and bottom skins were wrinkled from the leading edge to the spar.
Conclusion
The student pilot successfully landed the airplane without further incident.