Eye protection is recommended for handling certain waterbirds because of their tendency to strike at the face due to long necks and stabbing beaks. Which statement is most accurate?

• A. They are often calm
• B. They have long necks and stabbing beaks which can injure you
• C. They require special diets
• D. They are easy to handle

Answer: (B)

Eye protection is essential because these waterbirds can quickly strike at the face with their long necks and stabbing beaks, putting the eyes at real risk of puncture or injury during handling. Their anatomy and sudden movements create a credible threat, so guarding the eyes is a practical safety measure. The other statements don’t address this immediate risk: calmness isn’t reliable behavior, diet has no bearing on the injury risk during handling, and ease of handling doesn’t reflect the potential for a sharp, targeted beak to cause harm.