Specimen Tips: Birds

Birds are, without a doubt, a beautiful gift to man. That being said, all birds are not created equal. If you have a choice, pick out a mature bird in full plumage and good color, with few pinfeathers and little damage. If you hunt with a dog, make sure she has a soft mouth; or else retrieve the bird yourself.

Do not wring the neck of a crippled bird. You may wipe a bloody bird with a damp hand or damp soft cloth and then cool the bird as quickly as possible. Do not bag or cover until it is cool. Wrap in double plastic bag and deliver or freeze as soon as possible.

You may tuck the head under a wing to help protect this delicate tissue.