I read a great line on FT some time ago on compensation requests that I feel is worth repeating.

"I was driving to work one morning when out of nowhere, traffic backed up then came to a complete stop. My fellow motorists and I at first just saw there, then inched up ever-so-slightly. Finally after about half hour--maybe 45 mins--I was able to determine the traffic was due to a minor fender-bender. Throughout all this time, no information was provided. Emergency services never informed other vehicles. Radio traffic reports also weren't of much help. The result of all this was I was late to work. How much compensation am I owed from all parties involved in this fiasco."

To the OP in terms of compensation, I think being able to walk away from this situation and being able to talk about it speaks for itself. Maybe you can go after the bird's estate for something. Good luck.