For hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, a successful hunt is a momentous achievement. Whether you’re after a trophy buck or a memorable hunting experience, one way to immortalize your hunt is through deer taxidermy. Among the various options, deer skull mounting is a popular choice. It’s an incredible way to showcase the majestic antlers and the unique characteristics of your hunt. However, many hunters and collectors have questions about how to properly mount and care for a deer skull. In this Q&A-style article, we’ll address common concerns and provide expert insights on how to preserve and display your prized possession.
1. What is Deer Skull Mounting?
Deer skull mounting is the process of preserving a deer’s skull and antlers as a trophy for display. Unlike traditional full-body taxidermy, where the entire animal is preserved and mounted, a skull mount typically involves the removal and cleaning of the skull, while showcasing the impressive antlers. This method highlights the beauty and size of the antlers, offering a minimalist yet striking display piece for hunters.
2. How is Deer Skull Mounting Done?
Step 1: Field Preparation
After harvesting your deer, it’s crucial to act quickly. Remove the head from the carcass by cutting through the neck and using a sharp saw to separate the skull from the spine. If you’re planning to do it yourself, be sure to keep the skull as intact as possible to preserve the quality of the mount.
Step 2: Cleaning the Skull
Once you have the skull, it’s time to clean it. This is typically the most labor-intensive step. You can either boil the skull, use maceration (submerging it in water for a few weeks to allow bacteria to clean it), or have a professional taxidermist clean it for you. Boiling will remove the soft tissue, but it’s important not to overboil to avoid damaging the bone. After cleaning, the skull will be thoroughly dried.
Step 3: Whitening the Skull
After cleaning, the skull will have a natural bone color, but if you want a pristine white finish, you can use hydrogen peroxide or professional whitening agents to brighten it up. Avoid bleach, as it can weaken the bone structure over time.
Step 4: Mounting the Skull
Finally, the cleaned and whitened skull is ready to be mounted. A common method involves attaching the skull to a wooden plaque or directly to a wall using special mounting hardware. Some people opt to mount only the antlers, while others display the entire skull. The antlers can be carefully positioned to achieve an impressive presentation.
3. Can I Do the Deer Skull Mounting Myself?
Yes, you can do the deer skull mounting yourself, but it requires patience, time, and attention to detail. Many hunters prefer to handle the process themselves to maintain control over the finished look and save on the cost of hiring a professional. However, if you’re inexperienced or don’t have the tools, hiring a skilled taxidermist might be the best option. The taxidermist will have specialized equipment and knowledge, ensuring the final product looks as realistic and professionally done as possible.
4. How Do I Care for My Deer Skull Mount After It’s Finished?
Once your deer skull mount is complete, proper care is crucial to preserving its appearance and integrity. Here are some tips for maintaining your skull mount:
4.1 Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause the skull to yellow and deteriorate over time. To maintain its natural whiteness, place the mount in a location that’s shielded from harsh sunlight or invest in UV-protective glass if it’s going to be displayed in a sunny area.
4.2 Regular Dusting
Just like any other display item, your deer skull mount will collect dust over time. Use a soft, dry brush to gently remove dust from the surface. You can also use compressed air to blow out dust from hard-to-reach crevices, especially around the antlers and nasal cavity.
4.3 Keep it in a Stable Environment
Extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity can cause damage to your skull mount. Try to maintain a consistent room temperature and humidity level to avoid warping or cracking the bone. A climate-controlled environment is ideal for preserving the mount for years to come.
4.4 Handle with Care
When handling the skull, always be gentle. The bone can become fragile over time, especially after prolonged exposure to the elements. Avoid using heavy cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the skull or antlers.
5. Why Do People Choose Deer Skull Mounts Over Full-Body Taxidermy?
Deer skull mounts have a unique appeal compared to full-body taxidermy for several reasons:
- Aesthetic Appeal: The simplicity of a deer skull mount allows the antlers to be the focal point, showcasing their impressive size and shape.
- Space-Efficient: Full-body mounts take up significant space, whereas a deer skull mount is compact and can be displayed in smaller areas like an office, study, or hunting lodge.
- Cost-Effective: Skull mounts are typically less expensive than full-body taxidermy due to the reduced time and materials involved.
- Timeless Elegance: Many hunters appreciate the classic look of a skull mount, which gives a rustic, natural vibe that fits perfectly in modern and traditional settings.
6. What Are Some Creative Ways to Display My Deer Skull Mount?
The way you display your deer skull mount can enhance its impact. Here are some creative ideas:
- Custom Wooden Plaques: Mounting the skull on a finely crafted wooden plaque with a personalized engraving adds an extra touch of distinction. Choose woods like oak, walnut, or mahogany for a timeless, rustic look.
- Wall-Mounted Display: For a minimalist approach, directly mount the skull on the wall. Use strong, discreet mounting hardware to securely hang the skull while keeping the focus on the antlers.
- Incorporate Antler Lighting: Some people choose to incorporate antlers into unique lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or wall sconces, creating a striking conversation piece.
- Shadow Box Displays: For a more curated look, consider creating a shadow box with the skull, antlers, and other memorabilia from the hunt, such as photographs, shells, and hunting gear.
7. Should I Get My Deer Skull Professionally Cleaned and Mounted?
If you don’t have the time or tools to properly clean and mount your deer skull, it’s worth considering a professional service. Skilled taxidermists can handle the entire process, from cleaning and whitening to expertly mounting the skull on a plaque or other display. Not only will they ensure the job is done correctly, but they can also offer advice on how to preserve your skull mount for years to come.
Conclusion
Deer skull mounting is a beautiful way to commemorate a successful hunt and showcase your trophy. Whether you choose to mount the skull yourself or enlist the help of a professional, proper cleaning, care, and display will ensure that your deer skull mount remains an impressive and lasting testament to your hunting achievements. With a little attention and effort, your mounted skull will continue to inspire admiration and evoke memories of your outdoor adventures for years to come.
