NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that, about two miles from his destination, he made a left turn to enter the downwind leg for landing when a bird came out of the sun. The pilot made a hard right turn to avoid the bird from coming through the windscreen. The bird subsequently collided with the leading edge of the left wing. The pilot continued to his intended destination without further incident.

A postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the left wing.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

An in-flight collision with a bird.