Shirra:
aa,the well known FCO atc. In this case ,I bet you were already in a tight situation,as I know very well their proficiency.
It's a lot of fun going there,every time.Especially when you're cleared for a rwy,by 3-4 atc sectors,then kept high and fast,and in the last second ,cleared to turn and intercept the ...other rwy.
As I said,a lot of fun....
The 604guy answered well to your question.
And ,regarding birds strike ,I wouldn't be so careless.Recently,we had to replace an entire fan (737Cl) due to birds strike ,and it was at low speed ,just after take off.
There are some interesting photos on the net ,regarding birds strike,just do a search.The faster you go,the bigger the hole,I think.
Alex