Creating a European mount of a deer skull is a rewarding process that preserves a beautiful memento of your hunting trip. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you achieve a clean, pristine skull ready for display. We'll cover everything from initial preparation in the field to the final whitening process.
Phase 1: Field Preparation - The First Crucial Steps
The condition of your skull upon retrieval significantly impacts the final result. Proper field preparation minimizes the risk of damage and makes the cleaning process easier.
1. Skinning and Flesh Removal:
- Immediately after harvest: Begin by carefully skinning the head, ensuring you remove all the skin and muscle tissue down to the skull's bony surface. Pay close attention to the ears, eyes, and nasal cavity. Thoroughness here is key.
- Tools: Use a sharp knife to prevent tearing the skull. A scalpel can be helpful for delicate areas.
- Important Note: Avoid damaging the skull's delicate nasal bones during the skinning process.
2. Initial Cleaning:
- Rough Cleaning: Remove as much visible flesh and tissue as possible using your knife or scalpel. Don't worry about absolute perfection at this stage; just get the bulk of the material off.
- Soaking (Optional): Submerging the skull in cold water for a few hours can help loosen some of the remaining tissue. This is especially helpful if you can't clean the skull thoroughly in the field.
Phase 2: Maceration - Nature's Cleaning Power
Maceration is a natural process that uses the power of enzymes and bacteria to break down the remaining soft tissue. This is a crucial step for a clean and odorless European mount.
1. Container Selection:
- Choose a container: A large plastic container with a lid is ideal. The size should comfortably accommodate the skull, ensuring it's not overcrowded. A 5-gallon bucket often works well.
- Water Changes: You will need to frequently change the water to prevent bacterial growth and odors.
2. The Maceration Process:
- Submersion: Submerge the skull completely in cool water. Change the water every 2-3 days, depending on the temperature and the size of the skull. The water should be changed more frequently in warmer weather.
- Duration: The maceration process typically takes 2-4 weeks. Check the skull daily for progress. You'll see the soft tissue gradually detaching from the bone.
- Signs of Completion: When the soft tissue is mostly gone and the bone is easily cleaned with a scrub brush, you can move on to the next phase.
3. Manual Cleaning:
- Scrubbing: After maceration, use a stiff brush (like a bottle brush) and running water to remove the remaining bits of tissue from all crevices and surfaces. A toothbrush is useful for intricate areas.
- Patience: This process requires patience. Don't rush, and take your time to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Phase 3: Degreasing - Removing the Fat
Degreasing is essential to prevent the skull from becoming yellow or developing an unpleasant odor over time. This step removes the oils naturally present in bone.
1. Degreasing Methods:
- Dawn Dish Soap Method: A common method is using Dawn dish soap. Submerge the skull in a solution of warm water and Dawn, changing the solution every few days. This process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the skull's size and the amount of fat present.
- Acetone Method: A faster method, but one requiring more caution, uses acetone. Acetone is a strong solvent and requires proper ventilation. Always follow safety precautions when working with acetone. This is generally only recommended for experienced individuals who can safely handle the chemical.
2. Post-Degreasing:
- Thorough rinsing: After degreasing, thoroughly rinse the skull under running water. Ensure all traces of soap or acetone are removed.
Phase 4: Whitening and Finishing Touches
The final step is to whiten the skull to achieve a pristine, museum-quality finish.
1. Whitening Options:
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This is the most common and readily available whitening agent. Submerge the skull in a solution of hydrogen peroxide (typically 35% or higher) for several hours or days. The strength of the solution and the time required may vary depending on the desired level of whiteness and the skull's initial color.
- Commercial Whitening Agents: Several commercial whitening agents are available specifically for taxidermy and bone preparation. These products often produce faster and more consistent results.
2. Final Cleaning and Drying:
- Rinse thoroughly: After whitening, rinse the skull very well to remove any residue from the whitening agent.
- Air Dry: Let the skull air dry completely. This prevents mold and ensures a clean, odorless final product.
Conclusion: Displaying Your Masterpiece
Once completely dry, your European mount is ready for display. Consider using a specialized stand or mounting hardware to showcase your beautifully preserved trophy. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key throughout the entire process. With careful attention to each step, you can create a stunning European mount that you’ll treasure for years to come.
