On the lag time to cleaning. I am a big proponent of doing it as quick as possible. Especially if it is above 70-75 degrees. If you have to wait, sticking ice in the body cavity is what I do. For those that haven't, it is real easy just cut around the anus and pull everything out. Insert ice.

I don't pluck them anymore (haven't in 20 years) and it only takes about 5 minutes to clean one and have it in zip locks in a cooler. So why wait? I only save the breasts, thighs, and drumsticks.

There is a reason many people won't eat wild game and a lot of it has to do with poor preparation and handling.