What is "after having harvested a wild turkey?

After successfully harvesting a wild turkey, several steps are important for responsible and ethical handling of the bird. These include proper field dressing, safe transportation, and appropriate storage until you can further process it.

• Field Dressing: Immediately after the harvest, it's crucial to field dress the turkey to prevent spoilage. This involves removing the internal organs, including the entrails. The steps for Field%20Dressing vary slightly depending on personal preference and resources but typically involve making an incision near the vent and carefully removing the organs, gizzard, and liver. You should always dispose of these remains responsibly, following local regulations.

• Cooling: Cooling the turkey down as quickly as possible is vital. After field dressing, clean the cavity with potable water and pack it with ice. This prevents bacteria growth and improves the quality of the meat. You can even consider hanging the turkey in a cool, shaded place to assist with cooling if conditions permit. It is vital that you get the internal temperature below 40°F (4°C) within a few hours to ensure food safety. This can be done by creating the proper Cooling environment.

• Transportation: Transport the turkey in a manner that keeps it cool and protected from contamination. Use a cooler with ice or ice packs to maintain a low temperature during Transportation. Avoid placing the turkey directly on the vehicle floor.

• Storage: Proper Storage of the turkey is essential. If you plan to process the turkey immediately, keep it refrigerated. If not, consider freezing it for longer-term storage. When freezing, wrap the turkey tightly in freezer paper or use a vacuum sealer to prevent freezer burn.

• Processing: You can process the turkey yourself or take it to a professional butcher. Processing involves plucking the feathers, removing the remaining organs, and breaking down the turkey into desired cuts (breasts, thighs, drumsticks). Ensure you use clean utensils and work surfaces during Processing.

• Regulations and Tagging: Before you do anything, verify and follow all state and local hunting Regulations%20and%20Tagging regarding turkey harvests. These might include tagging requirements and guidelines on where/how to properly dispose of the remains. Always be a responsible hunter.