Can hunters recycle shot starlings into wildlife feed?

Handling and Cleaning Shot Game Birds

When handling shot starlings, it’s crucial to prevent cross-contamination of other game and to maintain food safety. Wear gloves when handling the birds, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling. Remove the feathers, entrails, and any damaged or rotten tissue, and then clean the carcass in a sink with cold water and a non-abrasive scrubber. Rinse the carcass thoroughly, and then soak it in a solution of 10 parts water to 1 part 1% bleach for 10-15 minutes. This step helps to prevent bacterial contamination.

Rendering and Grinding

To make the starlings safe for consumption by other wildlife, they must be rendered to destroy bacteria and other pathogens. You can purchase a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for at least 15 seconds. Then, grind the starlings into a fine texture using a meat grinder or a food processor with a grinding attachment. Store the ground starlings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer-term storage.

Feeding Wildlife

Once the starlings are rendered and ground, you can offer them to other wildlife as a nutritious food source. Consider using a game feeder or a bird feeder with a squirrel-resistant design to keep the starlings off the ground and away from potential predators. Mix the starlings with other ingredients like cracked corn, sunflower seeds, or fruits to create a balanced and appealing feed. When feeding wildlife, always check local regulations and ensure you’re not competing with other food sources, such as bird seed or commercial wildlife feeders.