Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during the initial climb phase of flight, at approximately 1,500 feet mean sea level, a bird was observed flying vertically before turning into the airplane. The bird first contacted the propeller, then continued through the left side of the windshield, and struck the pilot in the face.
Pilot Actions
After the bird strike, the pilot regained control of the airplane and declared an emergency. The pilot subsequently landed the airplane without further incident. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the windshield as a result of the bird strike.