Hanging Game Birds

Wild birds are hung before plucking and cleaning. They are suspended by the neck in a cool, airy place, to tenderize the meat and develop the flavor. Opinions vary on how long to hang a bird, or indeed whether to hang game at all. Above all, hanging time depends on the weather and to some extent, the type of bird. In cool, dry weather, wild duck can be hung for two to three days, grouse for up to 10 days, partridge for up to two weeks, and pheasant three weeks. Wild geese need at least three weeks, but pigeon does not need hanging. However, when it is warm and humid, two to three days is sufficient for any bird.