Eye protection is especially important when handling which group of birds due to long necks and stabbing beaks?

• A. Bitterns, herons, egrets, loons, and cormorants
• B. Ducks and geese
• C. Songbirds
• D. Raptors

Answer: (A)

Handling birds with long necks and stabbing beaks carries a high risk of eye injuries because their necks can move toward your face quickly and their beaks can puncture or scratch the eye. The group of bitterns, herons, egrets, loons, and cormorants fits this risk profile with long necks and spear-like bills, so eye protection is especially important when working with them. Wearing safety glasses or a face shield helps protect the eyes from rapid beak strikes or neck grabs during restraint or examination. While other bird groups may bite or thrash, they don’t typically present the same combination of long neck reach and stabbing beaks, so eye protection is prudent but not as critical as with these water-associated species.