I live and have done most of my flying over the past 12 years or so in Northern Florida where we have lots of birds. We have big birds like buzzards and eagles that float around all year long as well as all types of water fowl that do the migrating thing at one time or another each year.
I've had my share of coming close to birds while flying low level, especially during the take-off and landing phases of flight, but really anytime you fly low level increases the risk. Been lucky so far - no hits yet! (knock on wood)
The best defense for us RV fliers is probably the Mark-1-Eyeball and our craft's dexterity. Requires keeping your head up and outside doing the see and avoid thing. Last bit of advice: know that most birds will tuck and dive if you get close. If at all possible, I would recommend pulling up if maneuvering at the last second to avoid a collision.
Hope this helps.