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
Desert Southwest
Jackrabbit and desert cottontail; watch parasites in warm months.
Key items
- Desert cottontail (cool months preferred)
- Gambel's quail
- Dove
Regional caution: Avoid jackrabbits with visible warbles or lethargic behavior.