The 8 Best Tasting Game Birds

A few years ago, I was in a Southern duck camp with experienced wingshooters. Surprisingly, many had never plucked a duck and experienced the amazing flavors of crispy skin and fat. So, I plucked and breasted a few ducks and grilled them over a charcoal fire. The high heat quickly rendered the fat, and after a short cooking time, I sliced the medium-rare breasts against the grain and drizzled them with a flavorful ginger-orange sauce. The result was a feast that proved just how underrated wild ducks and game birds are in terms of taste.

I’ve hunted upland game birds and waterfowl across North America and other continents, and I’ve always valued the quality of the meat as much as the hunt itself. Ducks, geese, grouse, partridge, pheasant, and turkey are all delicious when handled properly in the field and cooked well in the kitchen. Through my culinary adventures, I have developed a list of the best-eating game birds.

1) Mallard

The mallard is the most popular duck among waterfowlers, and with good reason. These greenheads are abundant, exciting to hunt, and offer a burst of flavors thanks to their varied diet. Cooking a fat, late-season mallard results in a culinary delight. Whether you stuff it with dried fruit, breadcrumbs stuffing, or wild rice, make sure to poke holes in the skin to achieve crispiness. Mallard recipes can range from poppers to grilling or roasting to bring out the best flavors.

2) Wild Turkey

Wild turkeys are a remarkable success story in wildlife management. Their meat is darker and more flavorful than domestic turkeys, thanks to their diverse diet. The exquisite breast meat is perfect for various recipes, while the legs and thighs are best enjoyed when braised. Wild turkey is an excellent way to introduce non-hunters to the world of wild game.

3) Specklebelly Goose

The specklebelly goose holds the title of the “ribeye of the sky” among many hunters. These birds migrate early and fatten up quickly, resulting in tender and delicious meat. Roasted breasts and grilled legs and thighs offer a spectacular dining experience when prepared correctly.

4) Sandhill Crane

Sandhill cranes have unique characteristics and exceptional flavor. Their dense, medium-grained breasts resemble aged beef ribeye steak, making them a favorite among many. It’s best to cook crane breasts to medium rare and explore various marinades and sauces to enhance their natural flavors.

5) Ruffed Grouse

Ruffed grouse offers white meat with a rich, flavorful taste. Considered a “medicine bird” by early settlers, these birds have a varied diet that contributes to their deliciousness. Roasted grouse and fresh bush chicken sandwiches are just some of the many mouthwatering ways to enjoy them.

6) Canvasback

The canvasback duck has long been revered as one of the best game birds. With its exceptional flavor, large size, and tender meat, it has been enjoyed by presidents and celebrities alike. Roasting a canvasback is an iconic meal that deserves celebration.

7) Ring-necked Pheasant

The ring-necked pheasant, introduced to North America over a century ago, remains a favorite among wingshooters. Along with its colorful feathers, the pheasant offers excellent white breast meat perfect for grilling, frying, smoking, or roasting. However, be cautious as pheasant meat tends to dry out quickly.

8) Sharp-tailed Grouse

Contrary to popular belief, birds with dark flesh offer incredible flavor. The sharp-tailed grouse is often overlooked but delivers intense and rich flavors. Honey-bourbon fried breast, butter grouse, or sharp-tail pâté are just a few ways to savor this native game bird.

Honorable Mentions

Other game birds worth mentioning include quail, teal, Hungarian or gray partridge, dusky or blue grouse, and Ross’ geese. Each offers unique flavors and culinary opportunities.

Save the Skin

When preparing any of these game birds, plucking whenever possible is essential. The skin and fat add incredible flavor. For the best taste, pluck the bird while it’s warm and fresh. Take your time and savor the process; the extra care will be well worth it.