|
Field Care Tips
Many times trophies are ruined due to improper care in the field. By taking every precaution possible, you can help to ensure a quality mount.
Shoulder Mounts:
-
Leave at least 4 inches of hide behind the shoulder.
-
Never cut the throat, brisket, or neck.
-
Avoid dragging the animal if at all posible. If it is necessary, drag by the antlers and keep the head, neck, and shoulders off the ground.
-
Cut the hide around the body about 4-6 inches behind the shoulders. (Fig. 2a)
-
Cut the skin around the legs just above the knees. (Fig. 2a)
-
Make a cut up the back of the legs to the previous cut around the body. (Fig. 2b)
-
Peel the skin forward to the head.
-
Cut through the neck (not skin) and spinal column about 3 or 4 inches below the head/neck union. (Fig. 3)
-
Soak up any blood with paper towels.
-
Keep the cape cold and dry.
Small Mammals:
Birds:
-
Do not gut.
-
Pick the best specimen. Coose the one with the least blood stains, broken feathers/bones, and pin feathers.
-
Leave whole and slip, head first, into a nylon stocking then into a plastic bag and freeze.
Fish:
© McKenzie Taxidermy Supply
Remember to always bring the appropriate tags/licenses with your trophy to the taxidermist.
| |