Cleaning a deer head properly is crucial for preserving its quality and ensuring a successful taxidermy mount. This process requires careful attention to detail and adherence to sanitary practices to prevent damage and spoilage. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a first-timer, this guide will walk you through the essential steps, from field dressing to the initial cleaning process.
Preparing the Deer Head in the Field
The first step in cleaning a deer head begins immediately after the harvest. Proper field care dramatically impacts the final product.
1. Caping the Deer: Removing the Hide
- Sharp Tools are Essential: Use a sharp knife, ideally a skinning knife, to avoid tearing the hide. Dull blades cause more damage and increase the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Careful Incisions: Make careful incisions around the ears, eyes, lips, and neck. Work slowly and deliberately to prevent cutting into the skull or damaging the cape.
- Separate the Hide: Gently separate the hide from the skull, working your way down from the head to the shoulders. Avoid excessive force, using your fingers and knife to loosen the hide. Take your time to avoid tearing the skin.
- Neck Removal: Carefully cut the neck muscles, ensuring a clean separation from the skull. Leave as much meat attached to the cape as possible—this is particularly crucial for later fleshing.
2. Initial Cleaning
- Remove Excess Blood and Tissue: Once the cape is removed, use a clean cloth or paper towels to remove excess blood and debris from the skin and skull.
- Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the cape thoroughly with cold water to remove any remaining blood or tissue. Avoid hot water, which can damage the hide and cause hair slippage.
Cleaning the Deer Head at Home: Fleshing and Prepping
Once you've returned home, the cleaning process continues. This phase involves thorough fleshing and prepping the cape for tanning or taxidermy.
1. Fleshing the Hide
- Fleshing Tools: Utilize a fleshing knife or beam to scrape away remaining tissue and fat from the inside of the cape. This is crucial to prevent decay and ensure the long-term preservation of the hide.
- Thoroughness is Key: Be meticulous in removing all flesh and fat. Any remaining tissue will attract insects and lead to deterioration.
- Salt Treatment (Optional but Recommended): After fleshing, liberally apply a non-iodized salt to the inside of the cape. This helps draw out moisture and further prevent decay. Allow the cape to salt for several days, turning it periodically.
2. Cleaning the Skull
- Skull Preparation: The skull itself should be cleaned thoroughly. Boiling is a common method, but ensure the antlers are securely protected to avoid damage. A pressure washer can also be effective for removing stubborn tissue.
- Degreasing (For European Mounts): If you plan on a European mount (skull only), the skull will need degreasing. This usually involves using a degreasing agent or a prolonged soaking process. Consult a taxidermy guide for specifics on degreasing techniques.
Important Considerations
- Hygiene and Sanitation: Maintaining proper hygiene throughout the process is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and ensure the safety of the final product. Always use clean tools and wear gloves.
- Professional Assistance: If you are uncomfortable with any part of this process, it's best to seek professional help from an experienced taxidermist. They have the skills and expertise to preserve your trophy properly.
- Local Regulations: Be aware of any local regulations or laws concerning the handling and disposal of animal parts.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for cleaning a deer head. Remember, patience and attention to detail are paramount for achieving a successful outcome. While this guide offers a good overview, always consult additional resources and consider seeking professional assistance if needed. Proper cleaning is the cornerstone of a high-quality taxidermy mount.