Rigor mortis

[Silkiechicken66]

I was butchering a rooster and my friend started taxidermy so wanted the skin to practice mounting. Started skinning when rigor mortis hit. How long does it last and does that make the meat no good?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

All butchered birds go through rigor mortis. It's the reason you are supposed to rest a carcass before cooking it. I believe it's 2-3 days, but I'm not certain. @aart may know.

 

[Mosey2003]

While you're still butchering, you can work them out of it. Just work their legs and wings back and forth and they'll loosen back up. It will hit for real once you chill them.

 

[aart]

I believe it's 2-3 days, but I'm not certain. @aart may know.

Yes, for most birds older chickens I go 4 days for more tender meat,
turkeys 5 days for easier butchering.