Squirrel to rabbit to grouse
Field Dressing Small Game
Fast, sanitary field dressing for rabbits, squirrels, tree squirrels, hares, and upland birds — with region-specific parasite and disease notes.
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General practice
- Wear nitrile gloves — tularemia and other zoonoses are real.
- Cool the meat quickly; small game spoils fast in warm weather.
- Save hearts, livers, and kidneys unless the animal looked sick.
- Bury or pack out entrails per land rules.
Regional focus
Southern US
Heat is the biggest enemy; skin, gut, and cool immediately.
Key items
- Rabbit and squirrel
- Bobwhite quail
- Watch for warbles in early season
Regional caution: Tularemia risk in rabbits — cook to 165 °F internal minimum.