MV101 Tanning Part 1 Specimen Care and Hide Preparation HD

Tanning Part 1: Skin Care and Hide Preparation for Taxidermists
by Award-winning Taxidermist Rick Carter
The most important initial consideration for taxidermy is to eliminate and control the growth of bacteria. Bacteria growth is your #1 enemy. The instant a specimen dies, bacteria starts to deteriorate the condition of the skin.
High temperatures, blood, dirt, and moisture are immediate contributors to a ruined skin.
A specimen to be mounted should be treated much like food preparation.
Visually check the skin for color. Green is always bad news. Look for blood or pooling water. Check to see if any areas have loose hair or epidermal slippage. Also check for foul odors.
The tanning and hide preparation process can stop the bacteria from growing, but they can’t undo damage that’s already occurred.
When specimens are to be mounted, it’s best to always handle the skinning and preservation very quickly.
Always keep some bacteria sides and tanning solutions on hand so you don’t get caught off-guard.
Educate your clients on proper field handling. Keep them informed if you suspect their specimen is in trouble, or in bad condition.

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YOU ARE DA MAN RICK CARTER!!! 👍👍