A bird strike is defined as a collision between a bird and an aircraft and is often expanded to include bats and other animals.

Although it may seem that a bird is substantially smaller and hence harmless to a flying aircraft, several aircraft systems can be affected, potentially leading to disaster.

When a bird - even a small one - hits a plane, many systems can be affected:

• Clogged probes and damaged sensors may lead to inconsistent speed, altitude and attitude information or disagreement among instruments.
• Engine damage may range from dented compressor blades, propeller damage, vibration & engine failure.
• Jet engines are particularly vulnerable to bird strikes, leading to a loss of thrust following the ingestion of the bird.
• Windscreens may be shattered, impeding clear vision of the pilot, or in the worst-case causing decompression.
• Other parts of the airframe also commonly suffer from damage after a bird-strike, although it normally does not result in any critical failure in flight.

Looking at the answer options:

“Check NOTAMs and ATIS information for reported bird activity in the area.” → CORRECT. 

• Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). A notice distributed by means of telecommunication containing information concerning the establishment, condition or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure or hazard, the timely knowledge of which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations.
• Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS). Is a continuous broadcast containing essential information, such as current weather information, active runways, available approaches, and any other information required by the pilots of operational character, such as important NOTAMS.

“Accept that bird strikes cannot be avoided because they are a normal part of flying.” → INCORRECT. True to a point, but the question asks ''What is the best practice to minimise the risk of a bird strike'. You must mitigate for the risk, not just accept it may happen. 

“Fly at lower altitudes because birds normally fly at high altitude only.” → INCORRECT. Most bird strikes occur at lower levels.

“Plan the route over bird sanctuaries because birds are protected there.” → INCORRECT. Bird sanctuaries should be avoided if possible.