Squirrel Pate

The dachshunds have certainly been busy cutting down the squirrel population in our yard lately. So, as an update to the red-vs-gray battle reported on previously, I learned in the NYTimes now that the new approach to fixing the problem is: if you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

These days, however, in farmers’ markets, butcher shops, village pubs and elegant restaurants, squirrel is selling as fast as gamekeepers and hunters can bring it in.

“Part of the interest is curiosity and novelty,” said Barry Shaw of Shaw Meats, who sells squirrel meat at the Wirral Farmers Market near Liverpool. “It’s a great conversation starter for dinner parties.”

And the conversation can start over the squirrel and hazelnut pâté.