Incident
During a routine aerial observation flight along a pipeline, the pilot encountered a buzzard approximately 200 feet ahead of the airplane. The pilot immediately initiated a left turn to avoid a collision, but the buzzard changed its flight path and struck the right wing of the aircraft.
Post-Impact Actions
Despite the impact, the pilot maintained control of the airplane and landed without further incident. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage Assessment
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed substantial damage to the right wing. The extent of the damage was consistent with the bird strike reported by the pilot.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the buzzard was first seen at a distance of about 200 feet. The evasive maneuver was performed immediately, but the bird's course alteration made avoidance impossible. The pilot landed the aircraft safely and reported the incident accordingly.