They should be very fresh; when they look flabby about the vent, and this part is discoloured, they are stale. The feet should be supple; if old, the feet are harsh. The tame ones are larger than the wild, and are thought best by some persons; they should be fat and tender; but many are deceived in their size, because a full crop is as large as the whole body of a small pigeon. Pigeons, young, have light red legs, and the flesh of a color, and prick easily - old have red legs, blackish in parts, more hairs, plumper and loose vents - so also of grey or green Plover, Black Birds, Thrash, Lark, and wild Fowl in general. The wood pigeon is large, and the flesh dark-coloured: if properly kept, and not over-roasted, the flavour is equal to teal. Serve with a good gravy.
Pheasant
