What should you do immediately after harvesting an animal?

After harvesting an animal, it is essential to tag it according to Missouri regulations and begin field dressing. This step is crucial because tagging the animal provides a record of the harvest, helping ensure that you comply with state laws and regulations regarding hunting. Properly tagging the animal serves several purposes, including preventing potential poaching charges and facilitating the management of wildlife populations.

Field dressing is also an important process that involves removing internal organs to cool the meat quickly, reducing the risk of spoilage. This practice is critical for preserving the quality of the meat and is a standard procedure among responsible hunters. Engaging in these actions promptly after the harvest is key to ethical hunting and meat management, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and ensuring that harvested game is treated appropriately.