That is, they nest on the ground and seek out grassy fields and brushy areas to live in. Their habitat provides protective cover, concealing them from predators and sheltering them in cold weather. Not surprisingly, modern farming methods and the diminished areas of grassland in the country have worked together to threaten the pheasant population. However, active efforts to preserve the birds have had a positive effect in recent years. Cooks who live in areas where wild pheasants are under protection can still expect to find domesticated pheasant at good markets.
Pheasant meat is very flavorful, so devotees usually prefer to keep the preparation simple.
Roasted pheasant is complemented by simple autumn stuffings, perhaps flavored with nuts, onions, sage and thyme. A slice of bacon laid over the bird during cooking is another common flavoring. Rabbits and Hares Recipes Rabbits and hares are very popular small game animals, and their famously rapid rate of reproduction guarantees that they are rarely danger of extinction. In general, they can be hunted in the fall and winter. Farm-raised meat is available yearround.