Cleaning a deer head, also known as taxidermy, is a rewarding process that preserves a cherished hunting trophy for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a first-timer, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices for cleaning and preparing your deer head for mounting. Remember, proper cleaning is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring a long-lasting, high-quality mount.
Preparing Your Deer Head for Cleaning: Essential First Steps
Before you begin the cleaning process, proper field care is paramount. The sooner you start, the better the final result.
1. Immediate Field Dressing:
- Cap the Antlers: Protect the antlers from damage by carefully covering them with a sturdy material like burlap or a plastic bag. This prevents snags and scratches during transport.
- Cool Down the Carcass: A cool head is crucial. If possible, keep the deer in a cool, shaded area to slow down decomposition.
- Prevent Damage: Handle the head gently to avoid damaging the skin. Avoid unnecessary rough handling.
2. Transportation and Storage:
- Use a Cool Storage: If you can't begin cleaning immediately, refrigerate the head as soon as possible. This significantly slows down decomposition.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing can damage the hide and make the cleaning process significantly more difficult.
- Proper Packaging: Wrap the head securely to protect it during transportation.
The Cleaning Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning a deer head requires meticulous attention to detail. The following steps are critical for a successful outcome:
1. Skinning the Deer Head:
- Start at the Nose: Begin by making a small incision around the nose and carefully peel the skin back.
- Work Your Way Back: Use a sharp, clean knife to carefully separate the skin from the skull. Be cautious not to damage the skin.
- Eye Removal: Carefully remove the eyes. You can use a spoon or similar tool to carefully scoop them out.
- Ear Cleaning: Clean out the inside of the ears.
2. Cleaning the Skull:
- Remove Excess Flesh: Carefully scrape away all remaining flesh and tissue from the skull. A scraping tool or dull knife is best for this process. Thoroughness is key.
- Bone Cleaning: Once the majority of the flesh is removed, you can utilize a pressure washer (low-pressure setting), degreasing agents, or a combination of methods to clean the bone further.
3. Tanning or Preparing the Hide:
This step is crucial to preserving the hide. You have several options:
- Professional Taxidermist: This is often the best option, as professionals have the expertise and equipment to properly tan and prepare the hide, ensuring the best possible result.
- DIY Tanning Kits: Several DIY tanning kits are available, but they require careful attention to instructions and can be a complex process. Thorough research is essential before starting.
Important Considerations:
- Sharp Tools: Using sharp, clean tools minimizes damage to the hide and skull.
- Hygiene: Maintaining cleanliness throughout the process is critical to prevent spoilage and infection.
- Patience: Cleaning a deer head takes time and patience. Take your time and work meticulously for the best outcome.
Conclusion: Preserving Your Trophy
Cleaning a deer head is a skilled process requiring careful attention to detail. While this guide provides a framework, consulting with an experienced taxidermist is always recommended, especially for beginners. They can provide valuable insights and ensure your trophy is preserved in the best possible manner, resulting in a long-lasting and beautifully presented hunting memento.
